Election Commission restricts AI misuse, social media abuse, posters, and drones in election campaigns

The Election Commission (EC) has finalised the Code of Conduct for the upcoming 13th national election, introducing strict restrictions on the use of artificial intelligence (AI), social media, posters, drones, and quadcopters in campaigns. The rules, incorporated into the Parliamentary Election Rules 2025, will apply to political parties and candidates ahead of the polls scheduled for early February 2026.

AI and Social Media

The Code prohibits the malicious use of AI in election-related activities, including campaigning. Candidates and their election agents must submit the name, account ID, email, and other identifiers of their social media accounts to the Returning Officer before the campaign begins.

Spreading harmful content—such as hate speech, misinformation, manipulated images, fabricated election material, or personal attacks—has been strictly banned. The EC also prohibited derogatory remarks or inflammatory language against opponents, women, minorities, or any other group.

Penalties have been toughened: the maximum punishment for violations now includes up to six months’ imprisonment and a fine of Tk 150,000, compared to the earlier Tk 50,000 cap.

Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah stressed that neither AI nor social media can be used in ways that violate the Code.

Ban on Posters and Non-Biodegradable Materials

The EC has banned all forms of posters in election campaigns. Additionally, pamphlets, leaflets, handbills, festoons, or banners made from non-biodegradable materials—such as rexine, polythene, and plastic—will not be allowed.

Candidates may install a maximum of 20 billboards per constituency, each not exceeding 16 feet by 9 feet.

Restrictions on VVIPs

The Code designates members of constitutional bodies, the prime minister, caretaker government officials, ministers, MPs, and city corporation mayors as “Very Important Persons (VVIPs).” VVIPs face restrictions on joining campaign activities and are barred from visiting election areas during by-elections.

Ban on Drones and Helicopter Use

The use of drones, quadcopters, or similar devices is prohibited during campaigns and on polling day. Only party chiefs or those in equivalent posts may use helicopters, but they cannot drop or display campaign material.

Loudspeakers

Sound levels for microphones and loudspeakers used in campaigns must not exceed 60 decibels, and can only be used between 2 pm and 8 pm daily.

Enforcement

Violations of the Code could result in the cancellation of a candidate’s nomination. Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud confirmed that the Code has been sent to the Law Ministry for vetting but clarified that government approval is not required for its implementation.