The official campaign for the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (Cucsu) elections comes to a close at midnight on Monday, with candidates making a last-minute effort to win over voters before campaigning is barred.
According to the election code of conduct, all campaign activities must end after 12am on Tuesday. In the final hours, candidates were seen visiting students door-to-door, distributing posters, manifestos, and leaflets, and engaging in conversations to secure support.
The Cucsu and hall union elections are scheduled for Wednesday (15 October). Since the campaign began on 25 September, election fever has gripped the campus, intensifying over the past two weeks of rigorous campaigning.
On Monday, throughout the day, campaign efforts were visible across the university, from shops and street corners to cafeterias, where students engaged in lively discussions and debates about the upcoming election.
While many candidates relied on traditional campaign tools such as posters and banners, others employed creative methods including songs, plays, and miming to connect with voters.
Sumaiya Sikdar, a candidate for the post of Women’s Welfare Secretary, expressed confidence following positive feedback during her campaign. “I have tried to reach out to every voter, and they have assured me of their support. I remain hopeful,” she said.
Sajjad Hossain Hriday, vice president (VP) candidate representing the Chhatra Dal-backed panel, shared his optimism. “I’ve listened to every student and received overwhelmingly positive responses. I believe we will win.”
Meanwhile, Ibrahim Hossain Rony, VP candidate from the Shampritir Shikkharthi Jote panel supported by Chhatra Shibir, was seen distributing leaflets while briefly explaining his manifesto and urging everyone to participate in the voting process.
Mahfuzur Rahman, VP candidate from the Shotontro Shikkharthi Shommilon panel, highlighted his panel members’ involvement in the July movement and the strong support it has gathered. “Students have embraced our efforts warmly and assured us of their backing and success,” he noted.
This year marks a significant moment as students prepare to vote in the Cucsu election after several years.
Conversations across campus, both from the station to cafeterias, revolve around who will best represent the student body, with voters carefully weighing candidates’ qualifications, promises, and leadership qualities.
Election Commissioner Dr Monir Uddin confirmed that five deans will serve as returning officers, while 15 departmental chairs will act as presiding officers. Staff, security personnel, and officers have been appointed for the 60 polling booths, with 300 transparent ballot boxes and 700 secret voting booths ready.
Monir Uddin also detailed a comprehensive four-tier security system in place. The entire campus will be sealed from 14 to 16 October, and entry will be restricted to individuals with valid ID cards.
After nearly 35 years, the Cucsu and hall union elections will take place on 15 October, generating immense excitement and anticipation among students eager to exercise their voting rights.
