Arnautović: CIK's zero tolerance for unacceptable and legally prohibited campaign behaviors

(Patria) - President of the Central Election Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina Suad Arnautović sent a message to the citizens of BiH on the occasion of the start of the election campaign for the General Elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which will be held on October 2, 2022.

"Tomorrow, September 2, the election campaign for the General Elections 2022 officially begins, which will be held on Sunday, October 2. The campaign will last until October 1, 7:00 AM, when election silence begins. The election campaign is a period in which political subjects, in a legally prescribed manner, inform voters and the public about their programs and candidates.

I call on all certified political subjects to adhere to the Election Law of BiH – to present their programs, to conduct a fair campaign, not to use hate speech or language that could incite someone to use force, to avoid discrimination, especially stereotypes about persons of the opposite sex.

I call on voters to contribute to the campaign and the entire election process taking place in a democratic environment, especially young people, because it is important for the future of our country, Bosnia and Herzegovina, that young people are included in political processes.

I call on the media to represent political subjects equally and fairly and to inform the public about all issues related to the election campaign and the election process, as prescribed by the Election Law of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

I remind local authorities that they are obliged to ensure equal treatment of political subjects certified to participate in the elections in their requests to use public spaces and public facilities for the purpose of the election campaign.

I take this opportunity to remind political subjects, candidates and their supporters, as well as employees and those engaged in the election administration, that it is not allowed:
- misrepresentation on behalf of any political subject;
- to remove, cover, destroy or alter printed advertisements, posters, billboards or other materials used for the purpose of the election campaign;
- to carry and display weapons at political rallies, polling stations and their surroundings;
- to exert any pressure on journalists that would hinder them from performing their work in accordance with the rules of the profession and election rules.

I especially draw attention to the prohibition of the use of hate speech in the campaign, as well as any form of public expression or speech that incites or promotes hatred, discrimination or violence against any person or group of persons, based on race, color, nationality, sex or religion, ethnic origin or any other personal characteristic or orientation that incites discrimination, hostility and
violence.

This also includes the publication and use of images, symbols, audio and video recordings, SMS messages, internet communications, social networks and mobile applications, or other materials that may have such an effect.

At the same time, I also remind that holders of executive functions and mandates are prohibited from misusing public funds.

The Central Election Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina will have zero tolerance for unacceptable and legally prohibited behaviors in the election campaign. Let's be responsible for our actions and words," stated Arnautović.