Türkiye implements pre-election bans ahead of local polls starting March 21

The Supreme Election Board (YSK) announces the election calendar, highlighting that some upcoming poll restrictions have been put into effect

Türkiye implemented pre-election bans Thursday, starting March 21, as the much-anticipated local elections are just around the corner.

The Supreme Election Board (YSK) announced the election calendar, highlighting that some upcoming poll restrictions have begun today.

The pre-election bans will end on Saturday, March 30, at 6:00 p.m., while election restrictions will conclude on March 31 at 11:59 p.m.

During this period, political parties participating in the election and independent candidates may conduct verbal, written or visual campaign through announcements and advertisements in print media or by establishing internet websites until the end of the election campaign period.

Mini-referendums and polls banned in final 10 days

Throughout the election period, collective verbal campaigns outside general roads, places of worship, buildings, facilities providing public services and the squares specified by district election boards will be prohibited.

In open spaces, the collective verbal campaign cannot begin until sunrise, at the end of the second hour after sunset.

However, political parties may always send such messages to their members.

Within the 10 days preceding the voting day, any form of publication, distribution or conduct of mini-referendums using written, verbal and visual press and media, public opinion surveys, polls, predictions, information and communication telephone lines that would influence a citizen’s vote in favor of or against a political party or candidate will be prohibited.

Ministers and members of parliament are prohibited from conducting domestic election propaganda trips using official cars and vehicles allocated for official duties.

According to the regulations, protocol-based receptions, farewells and ceremonies cannot be held during such trips and official banquets cannot be organized.

No civil servant shall accompany ministers, members of parliament or candidates during election campaign trips, as per the regulations specified by YSK.

Election day restrictions

There are also few restrictions regarding March 31, voting day.

According to Article 79 of the Law, the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages on voting day are prohibited.

On voting day, all entertainment venues will remain closed throughout. However, restaurants may continue to provide meal services.

No one else shall carry weapons except those responsible for maintaining public order and safety.

Radios and all media outlets are prohibited from airing news, predictions or comments about the election or its results until 6:00 p.m. on the voting day.

 Only election-related news and announcements from the YSK may be broadcast between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.,

All broadcasts will be allowed to air news related to elections after 9:00 p.m., although the YSK reserves the right to amend the plan accordingly..

Source: Newsroom