DUCSU polls now a hot topic on campus

The long-awaited Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) election is knocking at the door, and excitement is running high among students.

For most of them, it will be their first experience participating in election to DUCSU, often dubbed the "second parliament" of the country.

Leaders and activists of various student organisations are now actively working on their prospective panels and continuing negotiation for those.

At the same time, students are enthusiastically debating and speculating about the possible winners for key positions such as vice president (VP) and general secretary (GS).

Panels still in discussion phase

Most panels remain under discussion and are yet to be finalised. According to sources in Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD), the organisation is still undecided about its panel and candidates. Direction from the central leadership is still awaited.

Mallik Wasi Uddin Tami, office secretary of DU JCD, stated, "All JCD activists are always ready to engage in DUCSU-related activities. However, the draft reformation of DUCSU and hall union, shared by the administration reportedly contains structural inconsistencies and disparities, differing significantly from the demands raised by active student organisations."

"Until a fair, non-discriminatory resolution is reached on these fundamental issues, it is impossible to make any final decision on panel formation or candidacy," said Tami.

He expressed hope that the administration will prioritise equal stakeholder participation and ensure a neutral, fair, and safe election environment.

Shibir and BGCS panels likely finalised

In the Islami Chhatra Shibir panel, former DU President Abu Shadik Qayem, current DU President SM Forhad, and Secretary Mohiuddin Khan are expected to run for VP, GS, and AGS respectively.

Other potential candidates include DU leaders Sajjad Hossain Khan, Miftahul Hossain Al Maruf, Mazharul Islam, and Iqbal Hyder.

SM Forhad said their panel is committed to student welfare. However, they will not form hall union panels; rather, their activists will contest independently in the halls.

Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad (BGCS) has already finalised its top candidates.

DU Convener Abdul Quader is likely to contest for VP, Central Convener Abu Baker Mazumder for GS, and Chief organiser Tahmid Al Muddassir Chowdhury for AGS.

Other potential candidates include Central Spokesperson Ashrefa Khatum, DU Member Secretary Mohir Alam, Chief Organizer Hasibul Islam, and Spokesperson Rafia Rehnuma Ridy.

Leftist coalition in talks

Jabir Ahmed Zubel, central member secretary of Revolutionary Student Unity, stated that several leftist student organisations are working to form a united panel under the banner of the Democratic Student Council. This coalition will likely include seven leftist organisations along with other progressive groups, individuals, and cultural activists.

Top leaders of these organisations are expected to contest for key DUCSU posts. The final panel will be announced in coordination with all participating bodies.

Independent panels also emerging Several independent candidates are also gearing up to form their own panels. Jamal Uddin Khalid, president of Swadhin Bangladesh Chhatra Sangsad, said,"We haven't finalised our panel yet, but many students are reaching out to join us. We're also in talks with popular campus figures."

Umama Fatema, former spokesperson of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, echoed similar sentiments saying "We're still in the discussion phase. Our aim is to include students who genuinely care about welfare and representation."

In another independent panel, Mosaddeq Ali Ibne Mohammad from Bangla Department, along with AB Zubayer and Abdur Rahman from Islamic Studies, are planning to run for VP, GS, and AGS respectively.

Mosaddeq said, "We plan to name our panel 'Swatantra Jote.' We may consider forming a coalition with a like-minded group."

Election schedule expected soon

The DUCSU Election Commission is working actively to announce the official election schedule. Meetings have already been held with student organisations and hall provosts.

Chief Returning Officer Dr. Zashim Uddin said, "We still have some stakeholders to consult. Once finalised, the election will be held within 40 to 50 days."

There is also a proposal to shift polling centers from halls to academic buildings to ensure more transparency. The commission is currently reviewing this matter.

One of the key issues being debated is whether students from the 2018-19 academic session-many of whom have recently completed their master's-will be allowed to participate or not. As according to the DUCSU constitution those who do not have studentship, won't be eligible in the election.

Dr. Zashim Uddin said, "There are two sides to the issue. We will consider both perspectives and will prioritise the majority opinion of the students."

armanhossen7971@gmail.com