All-out preparations in place for Ducsu polls, says DU vice chancellor
After 11 months of preparation, overcoming numerous challenges and fulfilling students’ aspirations, the university has now reached the final stage of the election process, he says
The university authorities have taken all-out preparations to ensure the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (Ducsu) elections are held in a fair and impartial manner, Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan said today (8 September).
Speaking at a press conference outside the Ducsu Election Commission office this evening, Niaz Ahmed stated that after 11 months of preparation, overcoming numerous challenges and fulfilling students' aspirations, the university has now reached the final stage of the election process.
"We are working to conduct the elections as smoothly as possible in coordination with law enforcement agencies. Our proctorial team, BNCC cadets, volunteer groups, and security personnel are all on the field. Journalists are also playing a vital role in maintaining transparency," he said.
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He outlined three reasons why the elections are particularly important - they reflect students' demands, relate directly to the values of the mass uprising, and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
Around 40,000 students will vote for the first time, and there are 810 polling booths, compared to 200–250 in previous elections, he said.
He added that there have been no complaints about returning officers, as he has appointed teachers who are widely acceptable to all parties.
No major threat centring Ducsu elections
After meeting with the home adviser to discuss election-related law and order earlier in the day, Niaz Ahmed told reporters that there is no major threat centring the Ducsu elections.
He noted that while the elections are held at Dhaka University, they attract national attention.
"A large number of law enforcement personnel at various levels will be present. In addition, volunteers, teachers, and other security teams are engaged in round-the-clock preparations," he said.
"We are coordinating the law and order situation as much as possible everywhere," he added.
Prof Niaz Ahmed also stressed the importance of transparency, saying, "We want to keep everything before the eyes of journalists. They are our trusted friends, and transparency will be our greatest strength."
Ducsu to be a 'model' election: Chief returning officer
Speaking at a press conference this evening, Chief Returning Officer Professor Dr Mohammad Jasim Uddin said Ducsu elections will be a "model" for other universities in Bangladesh.
Professor Jasim said the university has followed every step accurately to reach this stage.
"Voting will begin at 8am tomorrow and end at 4pm. Students arriving later will also be allowed to cast their votes," he added.
He assured that the law and order situation is under control, with no signs of fear or disruption.
