Smear campaigns against potential candidates rapped

Amidst parliamentary elections fast approaching, potential candidates have begun to target each other as part of their efforts and strategies to secure a seat in the House of Representatives or municipal councils.

But, along with the rivalry among the competitors, activists and scholars, observers have recently warned of a systematic campaign that’s targeting certain individuals, especially women who have announced their intention to take part in the quadrennial electoral race.

This includes accusing, dishonoring and “digging the past” to blackmail the candidates and push them to withdraw from the polls.

Mainly spreading on social media networks, such as Twitter and Instagram, these alleged campaigns have made some serious accusations against the expected female candidates and defamed them and their families.