EC orders printing presses not to print election posters

The Election Commission has directed printing presses across the country not to print any posters for the 13th parliamentary election.

The directive was sent to returning officers on Wednesday by Election Commission Deputy Secretary Monir Hossain.

It said candidates have already begun electioneering ahead of the parliamentary polls scheduled for Feb 12. Under the election code of conduct, the use of posters in campaign activities is prohibited.

Under the circumstances, the relevant authorities have been instructed to ensure that no candidate uses posters. The Election Commission has also asked for administrative measures to be taken to issue necessary instructions to printing presses to stop printing election posters.

This time, candidates are allowed to use black-and-white banners, leaflets, handbills and festoons for campaigning. However, these must be within the prescribed size limits.