KRG Ministry sets guidelines for upcoming election campaign

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - The Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has issued a series of guidelines aimed at regulating campaign activities for the upcoming Kurdistan parliamentary elections.

The ministry released an official statement on Sunday detailing the rules, which seek to preserve public spaces and ensure an orderly election process.

Key Guidelines Issued by the Ministry:

1. Political parties are prohibited from affixing pictures and posters of their candidates and parties to walls, pillars, and public barriers using nails, seccotine (adhesives), or stickers.

2. The placement of posters and campaign materials is strictly forbidden on park greenery.

3. Campaign signs may not be supported by mortar, cement, or blocks in any way.

4. Traffic signs are off-limits for election-related posters or signage.

5. Campaigning is banned in archaeological sites and heritage areas.

6. Posters of candidates are not to be hung on the walls of government offices, mosques, universities, or schools.

7. Municipalities have the authority to issue additional guidelines as needed to protect public property and maintain cleanliness.

8. Once the campaign period concludes, each candidate is responsible for removing and cleaning up their respective campaign materials.

9. Candidates who fail to comply will have their materials removed by municipal authorities and will face legal penalties.

The Independent High Election Commission (IHEC) is expected to soon announce the official campaign dates for political parties and candidates. IHEC has confirmed that special voting will take place on October 18, 2024, with general voting scheduled for October 20, 2024.

These guidelines are part of a broader effort by the KRG to maintain the aesthetic integrity of public spaces while ensuring a fair and organized electoral process.