EC Issues Guidelines on Use of Vehicles by Candidates and Agents on Polling Day

PNN News Desk | Dhaka

The Election Commission (EC) has issued detailed guidelines regarding the use of vehicles by contesting candidates and their polling agents on the day of voting for the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum.

According to the guidelines, each candidate and one of their polling agents may separately use one small vehicle each. Allowed vehicles include jeeps, private cars, microbuses, CNG-run auto-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws.

Each vehicle may carry a maximum of five persons, including a licensed driver. If a gunman is assigned for the candidate’s security, he will also be counted within the five-person limit.

In areas where no vehicles other than motorcycles can operate, candidates and agents may each use up to two motorcycles. Each motorcycle may carry a maximum of two persons, including the rider.

Separate guidelines have also been issued for water transport. When using boats, candidates and agents may each travel with up to five persons, including the operator.

The guidelines further state that anyone other than candidates, agents or gunmen traveling in vehicles must carry an identity card issued by the respective Returning Officer. Vehicles must display the Returning Officer’s sticker prominently.

It was also clearly stated that no individual accompanying candidates or agents—other than those authorized—will be allowed to enter the polling center premises.

The 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum will be held simultaneously in 299 constituencies on February 12.