As the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (Cucsu) election approaches, there were no classes or exams on Tuesday, leading to empty classrooms across the campus.
However, by the afternoon, popular hangout spots on campus became hubs of election activity, with candidates and students gathering to discuss the upcoming election.
Though direct campaigning had ended, socialising continued, and election excitement filled the campus. Popular spots such as Shaheed Minar, Zero Point, Arts Faculty stairs, and the forest path saw lively discussions and debates about the election and panels.
While traditional campaigning was limited, candidates continued to promote their platforms through social media, videos, and live streams. Using platforms like Facebook and YouTube, they shared their promises and panel stances, keeping the election buzz alive. Many candidates also held online meetings with supporters to ask for votes.
Ibrahim Hossain Rony, the VP candidate from the “Shampreetir Shikkharthi Jote” panel supported by Chhatra Shibir, posted a video on Facebook sharing his ballot number. He emphasised that modernising the shuttle train and transport systems would be a key priority for his team.
His proposals included increasing shuttle carriages, introducing separate carriages for men and women, hiring security guards, and expanding shuttle bus services to improve accessibility for students from remote areas.
Sakib Mahmud (Rumi), general secretary candidate from the joint panel of Chhatra Odhikar Parishad and Chhatra Majlis ‘Sarbojonin Shikkharthi Sangsad’, also shared his ballot number on social media, stating, “Whether I am elected or not, I will protect your rights and ensure no one is deprived of them.”
Meanwhile, Riju Lakshmi, VP candidate from the ‘Droha Parshad’ panel supported by left-leaning organisations like Chhatra Union and Chhatra Front, expressed on social media the frustration students are facing due to administrative failures.
He highlighted issues like hall occupations and attacks that disrupt students’ academic lives and called for an end to corrupt practices in student politics.
