Iraq’s electoral commission warns candidates about ‘overuse’ of posters harming public image

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission on Wednesday warned that excessive use of campaign posters could harm candidates’ public image and reminded all political entities of their obligation to submit detailed financial reports after the elections.

“The overuse of images and posters may affect the popularity of some candidates among citizens,” said Imad Jameel, head of the commission’s media team, in remarks to the state-run Al-Sabah newspaper.

Election posters are a pervasive sight during Iraqi campaigns, covering buildings, bridges, and public spaces throughout the country.

A total of 7,768 candidates are competing in this year’s parliamentary elections. Campaigning began Oct. 3 and will conclude Nov. 8, followed by a day of electoral silence before the Nov. 11 vote.

Jameel said the commission’s political party division has a specialized department responsible for monitoring campaign financing, including revenues and expenditures.

Under election law, every party, alliance, or individual candidate must submit a detailed financial disclosure to the commission within 15 days of the election, outlining spending mechanisms and funding sources. A final report, certified by an accountant, must be filed within 30 days.

The commission is paying particular attention to funds used for posters, banners, advertisements, and cash payments to campaign workers and observers. “All parties, alliances, and individual candidates are required to submit their financial statements to the commission, including data on revenues, funding sources, and expenditures, in accordance with legal regulations,” Jameel said. “This ensures transparency and prevents the use of political money to influence voters’ decisions.”

According to Jameel, 60 parties and alliances were fined early in the campaign period, with total penalties now approaching 500.

The Baghdad Municipality has joined the monitoring effort, deploying field teams to track violations such as campaign activity in places of worship or government facilities and unregulated advertising across media and social platforms.

Jameel said the commission has completed logistical preparations for election day, including staff training and secure storage of materials ready for distribution 72 hours before the vote.

Earlier this week, Iraq’s Ministry of Environment announced a joint initiative with the commission to recycle campaign materials into public awareness signs promoting environmental protection across Baghdad and other governorates.