EC Bans Posters, Tightens Rules on Campaign Banners

File photo

The Election Commission (EC) has banned the use of posters in election campaigns and imposed stricter rules on banners under the Code of Conduct for the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum scheduled for 12 February.

The official campaign period began on 22 January and will end at midnight on 10 February, 48 hours before polling day. During this time, candidates and political parties must strictly follow the revised regulations governing campaign materials.

Under the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates, 2025, the use of posters for electioneering has been completely prohibited. Clause 7(a) of the code clearly states that posters of any kind are not allowed.

The code also bans campaign materials made from non-biodegradable substances such as rexine, polythene and plastic. Clause 7(e) further requires that all printed campaign materials—excluding electronic and digital media—must be in black and white only. This applies to banners, leaflets, handbills and festoons.

According to the EC, banners must not exceed 10 feet in length and 4 feet in width. Leaflets and handbills are limited to A4 size, while festoons must be within 18 inches by 24 inches. Only the candidate’s own photograph and electoral symbol may be displayed on these materials.

The commission has also clarified that banners may be displayed either horizontally or vertically, provided they remain within the prescribed dimensions. The clarification was communicated to returning officers through a letter signed by EC Secretariat Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed.

Meanwhile, printing presses have been instructed not to print posters for election campaigns. In a notification, the EC said posters had been found in use in some areas, describing this as a clear violation of the Code of Conduct and a punishable offence.

The commission reiterated that registered political parties, nominated and independent candidates, as well as their campaigners, must strictly comply with the Code of Conduct throughout the campaign period.