CEC says pre-election propaganda is legitimate
The Armenian Central Election Commission responded to publications and alerts regarding the possible violation of the Electoral Code. It should be reminded that today different figures and citizens have published photos, according to which "My Step" and "Luminour Armenia" parties have launched their pre-election campaign by posting billboards in different parts of Yerevan, the Commission’s press office informed.
The CEC's statement says: "Before the start of the pre-election campaign period, propaganda is legitimate, and no breach of any provisions of the Electoral Codehas been observed.
The RA Central Electoral Commission clarifies that in accordance with paragraphs 1 to 3 of Article 19 of the RA Electoral Code:"The period of pre-election campaign is the period defined by this Code, during which, to provide the participating parties, candidates with equal opportunities the rules set by this Code on the enjoyment of public resources, carrying out a campaign and ensuring of financial transparency shall be implemented.
The prescription of the pre-election campaign period does not limit the implementation of propaganda in another period not prohibited by this Code.
The pre-election campaign period begins on the 7th day after the deadline set by this Code for the registration of the candidates and parties participating in the elections and ends one day prior to the voting day. During that period, the propaganda is called pre-election campaign. "
According to the Electoral Code, the pre-election campaign of the snap elections due on December 9 will start on November 28 and will end on December 7.”
However, law does not stipulate any limitations nor does it put any bans with respect to the periods when the parties and candidates cannot carry out propaganda, except the day proceeding the election day and the election day itself, CEC said.