AI generated propaganda spreads in Bangladesh polls as govt admits no direct takedown power

Government says removal depends on platforms

Artificial intelligence (AI) generated content is being used in campaigns for the national election, raising concerns about misinformation and propaganda.

Fact checking platform DismissLab reported that social media posts featuring AI created avatars of “ordinary voters” are urging support for specific symbols while spreading negative claims against rival parties and leaders.

Many users mistake these videos for real people, amplifying confusion.

The Election Conduct Rules 2025 prohibit the use of AI to create misleading, defamatory or hateful content.

Yet the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and IT says the government lacks direct authority to remove such material.

“We can only report to platforms like Meta, but takedown depends on their categorisation,” said Special Assistant Faiz Taiyeb Ahmad.

DismissLab identified a Facebook page, Uttarbanga Television, with over 90,000 followers, that posted AI generated videos promoting a candidate in Joypurhat 1.

Signs of deepfake manipulation included mismatched lip movements, distorted limbs and nonsensical text in backgrounds.

Other videos targeting opponents have drawn millions of views.

The Election Commission has long warned of AI misuse.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin earlier described it as a “global headache” and pledged coordinated measures.

The final conduct rules now require candidates to submit social media account details to returning officers before campaigning.

From Jan 22, political parties must follow these rules in online campaigning.

The EC has also opened a coordination cell to receive complaints of violations, irregularities and propaganda.

Citizens can report by phone at 0255007470, 0205007471, 0255007472, 0255007474 and 0255007506.