In a written statement, TIB executive director Iftikharuzzaman said on Thursday that the Election Commission has at different times called the media the “eyes and ears” of fair elections. (But) the guidelines issued recently have proved that the institution talked such tall tales only to make it popular and acceptable (to people). Basically, it has “hostage” the activities of journalists.
The Election Commission published the guidelines on Wednesday. It said that newspapers and other media persons cannot use motorcycles on the day of polling. Journalists cannot broadcast live from polling stations or at the time of counting of votes. Facebook Live will also be banned.
These guidelines will apply to Parliamentary, Municipal, Zilla Parishad, Upazila Parishad, Paurashva and Union Parishad elections and any bye-elections.