Candidates contesting in the ongoing local government elections are allowed to use various means to reach out to voters. However, the National Electoral Commission (NEC) has also outlined activities they must avoid during the campaigns and on election day. The upcoming elections, scheduled between November 17 to 24, will determine district councillors, who will subsequently be elected by an electoral college to serve as mayors and vice mayors. District councillors are elected indirectly by an electoral college comprising sector council members and executive committee members of the National Women’s Council at sector and district levels. As the campaigns continue, here are some of the key dos and don’ts candidates should observe. The dos: Campaign materials are allowed with permission According to NEC guidelines, candidates may put up campaign materials themselves or have their campaign agents display them, provided they follow instructions set by sector authorities and obtain permission from the owners of the properties where the materials are placed. Campaign materials may be displayed on public buildings at locations designated by district or sector authorities. Candidates may also use privately owned buildings, vehicles and other private property, provided they have the owners’ consent. Candidates may campaign on election day Candidates are allowed to address members of the electoral college in person on election day, but only for up to five minutes. The address must be delivered at a venue and time designated by NEC. The don’ts No campaign materials at health centres and schools Candidates are not allowed to display photographs or other campaign materials, or conduct campaign activities, at health facilities, schools, places of worship, courts or electricity poles. No insulting or defaming other candidates NEC prohibits candidates from insulting or defaming their competitors. They are also prohibited from engaging in discrimination, divisionism, bribery or other misconduct. Candidates who violate the rules risk receiving a warning or being removed from the list of candidates, NEC warns. No political party-based campaigns Candidates are not allowed to campaign on behalf of political parties or use national or political party symbols in their campaign photographs and materials.
