Candidates in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Ducsu) election have voiced multiple concerns regarding the role of the administration, adherence to election rules, security, and the overall conduct of the election.
They highlighted issues ranging from the safety of female students to the slow pace of voting, restrictions on campaigning, and perceived bias by university authorities. The candidates have urged the election commission to take immediate corrective action.
Abidur Rahman Khan, vice-president candidate from the Chhatra Dal panel, said several university groups are changing their names to carry out propaganda, destabilising the election environment. He warned that if these groups are not stopped, his panel may boycott the election.
The VP candidate also expressed concern over female students’ safety and called on the administration to act responsibly.
Abidur criticised the slow voting process, noting that taking eight to ten minutes per vote could increase the risk of disorder, and raised concerns that non-resident students might once again be denied voting rights, as occurred in 2019.
Umama Fatema, vice-president candidate from the Independent Student Unity panel, demanded equal opportunities for all candidates and urged the administration to provide a clear framework for campaigning.
She criticised the lack of coordination between examination and election schedules, which she said places additional pressure on candidates.
Abdul Kader, VP candidate from the Anti-Discrimination Student Parliament panel, alleged that female students are facing moral policing and cyber harassment, with private moments being circulated on social media, causing psychological distress.
He also said the election commission’s inaction is creating distrust among students and expressed concern over the deployment of the army, which he described as unnecessary in a normal situation.
Sadik Kayem, vice-president candidate from the Chhatra Shibir-supported Unity Student panel, protested administrative corruption and bias. He claimed that while third- and fourth-grade staff in the Register Building are provided benefits, students do not receive similar facilities.
The VP candidate added that despite repeated requests to ensure a fair and equal election, the administration is giving special advantages to one student organisation, undermining the integrity of the election process.