Election Campaigns Begin Ahead of February 12 Polls

Election campaigning for the 13th Jatiya Sangsad polls began on Thursday as the Election Commission completed the allocation of symbols to nearly 2,000 candidates contesting across the country.

A total of 1,981 candidates are set to compete in 298 of the 300 constituencies, the commission said, reminding contenders that all campaign activities must strictly follow the election code of conduct. The rules impose limits on rallies, campaign materials and the use of loudspeakers, and require all campaigning to end 48 hours before polling day.

Voting is scheduled for February 12 and will take place from morning until late afternoon.

Under the Election Commission’s Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates 2025, no registered political party, nominated candidate, independent candidate or their representatives may begin campaigning more than three weeks before polling day. Campaigning must end at midnight on February 10, 48 hours before voting begins.

The code guarantees equal rights for all candidates and strictly prohibits obstruction, disruption or intimidation of rival candidates’ meetings, processions or other campaign activities.

Political parties and candidates are required to submit their proposed campaign programmes to the relevant authorities before starting activities. If multiple parties or candidates plan programmes at the same venue and time, the authorities will coordinate them as necessary.

Public meetings, roadside gatherings or rallies are not allowed at locations where public movement may be disrupted, including major roads, highways and thoroughfares. Any campaign activity causing obstruction is also prohibited.

The code further bars political parties and candidates from organising public meetings, rallies or other campaign activities abroad in connection with the election.