With the 13th National Election approaching, Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) faces a new and complex challenge — the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in the electoral process. Experts warn that AI-driven misinformation, disinformation and deepfakes could be used to undermine the credibility of the polls or incite unrest.
Analysts say AI technology can make falsehoods appear convincingly real, posing a serious threat to voter perception. Local and international actors could exploit this vulnerability to manipulate public opinion.
During consultations with election experts, several participants urged the EC to take robust preventive measures.
Dr Gitiara Nasreen, professor, Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at the University of Dhaka said, “A huge amount of fake and misleading content, including AI-generated images, is already circulating. Its impact will intensify during the election.” She suggested engaging universities and specialists to help detect and counter AI-based false content.
She also stressed that combating misinformation must not compromise press freedom. “Media access throughout the election process — from preparation to result announcement — is vital to prevent confusion and ensure transparency,” she said.
Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan cautioned that while technology is crucial, Bangladesh’s limited infrastructure demands repeated testing of IT systems to ensure reliability. “If IT tools fail, trust will erode quickly,” he said.
He also noted that social media remains beyond the EC’s control and current laws are too weak to address online harassment and abuse. “Reporting to Facebook doesn’t solve the problem from Bangladesh. Selective measures are needed, and we must think calmly and strategically,” he added.
On maintaining credibility, Dr Ahmed said the EC should anticipate dissatisfaction among losing parties and take safeguards. “Deploy more cameras, journalists, and observers — visibility itself can prevent manipulation,” he said.
EC’s Response
The Election Commission (EC) says it is focusing on transparency and timely dissemination of accurate information. Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah told Banglanews that while misinformation cannot be fully eradicated, “it can be countered by presenting the truth clearly.”
He said the EC has introduced legal measures to ban AI-based propaganda and is reviewing media guidelines to support responsible reporting.
The EC has also launched verified Facebook and YouTube channels to directly share election-related updates, aiming to “establish truth and curb misinformation,” according to officials.
Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin said Canada has offered assistance in preventing AI misuse during Bangladesh’s election, while the UNDP is supporting efforts to close technological gaps. “AI misuse is a global threat, and we are working seriously on this issue,” he said.
Legal Measures Introduced
For the first time, Bangladesh’s electoral code includes explicit provisions against the use of AI for manipulation. Any candidate or party found using AI or digital tools for deceptive purposes — including spreading false information, distorting images, or promoting hate speech — could face disqualification, fines, or jail.
The new regulation mandates candidates to register their official social media accounts and prohibits AI-generated content aimed at misleading voters or tarnishing reputations. Violations could result in up to six months’ imprisonment or fines of up to 150,000 taka for individuals, while political parties could face financial penalties.
If the EC determines that a candidate’s actions constitute serious misconduct, it has the authority to cancel their candidacy after investigation.
The Commission plans to announce the election schedule in early December, with voting likely in the first half of February, as preparations continue across all levels.
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