EC Enforces AI and Drone Ban in Upcoming Election
The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh is set to enforce strict restrictions on the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drones ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Elections. This follows a previous ban on campaign posters, as the EC aims to ensure fair and secure electoral practices.
Speaking at the EC headquarters in Agargaon on Thursday, August 7, Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah announced, “We have imposed a strict prohibition on the misuse of AI. The main concern is not AI itself but the problem of misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation. To tackle these, we’ve incorporated specific clauses in the election code of conduct.”
He further elaborated, “Misinformation is spreading false content without intent—often due to casual behavior. For instance, someone shares unverified data, not knowing whether it is true or false. Disinformation involves a deliberate attempt to spread falsehood for malicious purposes. Malinformation refers to spreading the truth, but in a context where it should not be shared.”
Responding to a query about whether social media might be restricted during the election period, Sanaullah clarified, “Our goal is to ensure smooth elections without disrupting digital services or limiting platforms. Unless absolutely necessary, the Election Commission has no intention of restricting any service or platform at this time.”
The use of drones (quadcopters) has also been banned during the election campaign period. “Candidates, agents, supporters, media, or anyone else will not be allowed to use drones. The EC has no need for them either. If any necessity arises, we will discuss it. Even the media is prohibited from using them since it’s difficult to distinguish between accredited and non-accredited sources,” he said.
Regarding surveillance, Sanaullah commented on the use of CCTV cameras in polling stations, “We’ve held several meetings about this already. It’s not practical to purchase or even rent that many cameras for just one day of use. With 45,000 centers, justifying this decision would be very difficult.”
The commissioner also discussed voting from abroad, stating, “We are working to ensure out-of-country voting through postal ballots. Our aim is to make sure Bangladeshi expatriates can vote. This will be done through a verified postal ballot system.”
EC sources revealed that the draft of the updated code of conduct, which now includes rules on AI misuse and social media behavior, was formulated after reviewing suggestions from political parties, organizations, and individuals. The draft released on June 29 did not contain these additions.
In addition to banning AI and drone use, the updated code also prohibits any form of cultural event organized for electioneering. Furthermore, on election day, no one except those officially authorized may use motorcycles or other motorized vehicles.
