Dope tests mandatory in Cucsu election; Positive result will disqualify candidate
Highlights:
- Campaign hours fixed between 10am–10pm
- Campaigns may be conducted online or via social media
- Food, drinks banned for voters during polls
- Meetings, gatherings, and processions require prior written permission
The Chittagong University Central Students' Union (Cucsu) election commission has made dope tests mandatory for all candidates, stating that a positive result will automatically disqualify them, though candidates can defend themselves. This rule was outlined in the code of conduct released on Friday.
After 35 years, Cucsu and hall union elections will take place again. Chief Election Commissioner Professor Monir Uddin explained that candidates will receive a dope test card when collecting their nomination forms.
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Candidates must submit a sample at the university medical center, with the Chief Medical Officer sending the results to the commission. Candidates will bear the test costs.
Other codes of conduct
The code of conduct includes several key restrictions. No processions or rallies are allowed during the nomination process, and candidates can only be accompanied by up to five supporters.
Nomination withdrawals must be done in person, and no group or individual can obstruct the process. Rivals or supporters are also banned from organising processions using vehicles, motorcycles, or any other similar transport.
On election day, voters cannot be transported to polling centres, and only authorised sticker-bearing vehicles may operate under the Proctor's Office's supervision. Campaigning can start after the final candidate list is announced, but must end 24 hours before polling day.
Campaign hours are from 10am to 10pm, with megaphones prohibited after 9pm. Online or social media campaigning is allowed as long as it remains lawful and free from personal attacks or defamatory content.
Meetings and rallies must be approved in writing by the Chief Returning Officer or relevant Hall Officer, and the Proctor must be notified at least 24 hours in advance. Campaign materials can only feature black-and-white photographs of candidates, and posters, leaflets, or handbills cannot be attached to campus property. Candidates or their supporters may not raise funds or offer food to voters during campaigning or on polling day.
Campaigns must avoid defamatory or inflammatory remarks, and intimidation or voter obstruction is strictly prohibited. Male candidates may enter female halls, and vice versa, only with permission from the Returning Officer for projection meetings. Voters must show a valid hall ID card to enter polling centres.
Only authorised officials, candidates, polling agents, and approved individuals may enter polling centres. Accredited journalists can also enter with proper authorisation. On election day, only voters, university staff, and authorised personnel are allowed on campus.
Candidates or supporters can distribute voter slips, but not within 100 meters of polling centres. Carrying explosives or weapons is prohibited, except by law enforcement or authorised personnel.
Violations of the code will be addressed by the Returning Officer, either through complaints or immediate action. Offenders may face fines up to Tk 20,000, disqualification from candidacy, expulsion from the university, or other legal penalties.
