Special Correspondent //

The Election Commission (EC) has issued the new ‘Upazila Parishad Election Code of Conduct-2026’ ahead of the upcoming Upazila Parishad elections across the country, including Sylhet.

The new regulations were recently (on September 3) published in the form of a gazette, signed by the EC’s Senior Secretary, Akhtar Ahmed.

In addition to banning the use of posters for election campaigning, the new rules impose strict restrictions on processions, show-downs, the use of helicopters, the utilization of government facilities, and the dissemination of misleading or hateful content generated via Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The new regulations also place controls on the campaigning methods and expenditures of candidates and their supporters. Furthermore, provisions have been made to cancel a candidate’s candidature if allegations of violating the code of conduct are proven. Penalties for violations include a maximum of six months in prison, a fine of Tk 50,000, or both.

One of the most significant changes in the new code of conduct is the ban on posters. Neither a candidate nor anyone acting on their behalf may use posters for campaigning. Restrictions also apply to the use of campaign materials on structures, walls, trees, fences, utility poles, government installations, bridges, and culverts.

Public processions are prohibited from the time the election schedule is announced until the election results are published in the official gazette. Processions or rallies using vehicles such as trucks, buses, motorcycles, watercraft, and trains are not permitted. The use of helicopters or other aircraft for election campaigning is also banned. However, campaigning via social media and digital platforms is allowed; candidates must inform the Returning Officer about the specific platforms they intend to use before commencing such campaigns.

Additionally, any expenditure incurred for social media campaigning will be included in the total election expense account.

Special provisions have also been included to prevent the misuse of Artificial Intelligence in digital campaigning. Candidates and their supporters are prohibited from disseminating statements that are false, misleading, hateful, or constitute personal attacks. Read the news regularly and share your opinions.