The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published its instructions for the conduct of political activities, three months before the 2023 general elections.
The panel forbade the use of abusive language and hate speech as well as political campaigns and rallies at houses of worship in a six-page paper titled “Conduct of Political Rallies, Processions, and Campaigns.”
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Additionally, it was declared that no one should be carrying an offensive weapon while participating in a political demonstration, procession, or campaign.
According to INEC, only police personnel or members of security services who have been assigned explicitly to be present at the relevant political rallies or processions are permitted to carry weapons at such events.
“Political campaigns may not be held in public buildings, police stations, or places of worship.
“Political campaign shall not involve the use of abusive languages or any form of hate speech.
“State apparatus including the media shall not be employed to the advantage or
disadvantage of any political party or candidate at any election”.
The purpose of political rallies, according to INEC, is to present, promote, sensitise, and raise awareness of the party’s emblem, flag, catchphrase, and platform.
The commission required political parties to submit a notification of the schedule of their campaigns within a minimum period of no later than 10 days prior to the start of their campaigns. This notification was to include the date, time, venue, agenda, list of members of the organising committee, and police approval within the jurisdiction of the campaigns.
Political parties and candidates should conduct campaigns in accordance with the provisions of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties 2022, the codes of conduct for political parties, any regulations and guidelines that the National Broadcasting Commission may issue, COVID-19 safety protocols, and other public health laws and ordinances, the statement continued.
