Dhaka University is close to forming the long-anticipated Election Commission for the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Ducsu), with the university administration confirming that final preparations are underway. According to the election roadmap published in April, the commission was scheduled for formation in early May. Officials now say this key step is imminent, which will formally kick off the Ducsu election process, reports UNB.
Professor Dr Sayma Haque Bidisha, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Administration), stated that a shortlist of commission candidates is being considered. These individuals, she said, are expected to be capable of engaging students, maintaining neutrality, and overseeing a transparent election. Although a recent student survey expressed support for a commission jointly formed with students and teachers, Dr Bidisha clarified that students will not be included as commission members, though their recommendations will be implemented by the commission.
The university has already finalised a comprehensive code of conduct for the election. It includes restrictions on rallies during nomination periods, limits the number of supporters accompanying candidates to five, and forbids any obstruction or interference among candidates. Vehicles are banned for campaign use except for rickshaws and bicycles, and the offering of food, drinks, gifts, or money to voters is strictly prohibited. Campaigning will be allowed only between 10:00 am and 11:00 pm from the release of the final candidate list until 24 hours before election day, with no microphone use after 10:00 pm. Only registered candidates and voters may campaign, and any meetings must be approved 24 hours in advance. A maximum of one projection meeting per hall and three across the university is allowed. Any violations may result in a Tk 20,000 fine, disqualification, or further disciplinary action.
Simultaneously, reforms to the Ducsu constitution have been adopted. Most notably, the 2024 student uprising has been officially recognised. Two new clauses under Section 2 affirm Ducsu's commitment to opposing discrimination and supporting democratic student movements, while also promoting academic and co-curricular excellence. The role of Secretary for Struggle for Independence and Liberation War Affairs has been updated to Secretary for Liberation War and Democratic Movements. Additionally, the Cultural and Literature Secretary posts have been merged into one. The Ducsu Treasurer will now be appointed by the Vice-Chancellor in consultation with the executive committee. While any objections to the election outcome must be submitted within three days of result publication, the clause preventing court challenges to the president’s decision has been removed.
With the commission nearly formed and institutional structures in place, Dhaka University appears set to restore its student governance framework after years of demands for revival.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
