Voting Underway in DUCSU and Hall Union Polls

DUCSU and hall union elections began today across Dhaka University campus.

The long-awaited elections to the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) and hall unions began at 8 am today across eight designated polling centres on the university campus, marking a significant day in the institution’s history of student politics.

From the early morning hours, students gathered enthusiastically at the centres, creating a festive atmosphere across the campus. Returning officers sealed ballot boxes in front of observers to ensure transparency in the process. For the first time, optical mark recognition (OMR) technology-based six-page ballot papers are being used in the polls, a move aimed at enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

Candidates from various student organisations, including those backed by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir, were seen casting their votes alongside fellow students. Vice-President candidate Abidul Islam Khan visited the Udayan School and College polling centre in the morning, while Shadik Kayem, contesting for VP with Islami Chhatra Shibir’s backing, and Tanvir Bari Hamim, the JCD-backed General Secretary candidate, queued up with students to exercise their franchise.

Excitement was especially high among first-time voters who relished the opportunity to participate in what many described as a democratic process free from fear or pressure. “It feels like an honour to vote according to my own will. After the fall of fascism, being able to vote in such an environment is truly encouraging,” said Sumon Islam, a student who cast his ballot with pride.

Another student, Alfaz Hossain, echoed similar sentiments: “Although I became a voter long ago, I never had the chance to cast my ballot freely for my preferred candidate. This is the first time I exercised my franchise in the DUCSU election.”

University authorities expressed optimism that the elections would be free, fair and peaceful. Officials highlighted that measures had been put in place to ensure security and transparency throughout the day. The mood across the campus remained vibrant, with students celebrating the chance to make their voices heard in shaping the leadership of DUCSU and the hall unions.