Polls tomorrow after 35 yrs; tight race likely between JCD, Shibir

RU Correspondent
After a long gap of 35 years, the Rajshahi University (RU) campus is abuzz with political excitement, as the Rajshahi University Central Students' Union (RUCSU) and hall union elections are set to take place tomorrow (October 16).
The campus has turned festive with colorful campaigns, slogans, and rallies, as anticipation builds for one of the most competitive polls in the RU history.
This year, 247 candidates are competing for 23 RUCSU posts, including 18 for VP, 13 for GS, and 16 for AGS. A total of 11 panels - including those backed by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir - have been officially announced.
In addition, 58 candidates are contesting for five student representative positions in the university senate, while 597 candidates are vying for 15 hall union posts across 17 dormitories.
The RU authorities confirmed that there are 28,901 registered voters, comprising 11,305 female and 17,596 male students.
In the last RUCSU election held in 1990, the JCD panel achieved a sweeping victory. This time, however, students and observers predict a close contest with no single group clearly in the lead. The contest appears centered around JCD and Shibir. With the stakes high and results uncertain, many believe the VP, GS, and AGS positions will witness intense three-way or even four-way contests.
The vice president (VP) race has drawn the most attention. Insiders expect a close fight between Shibir-nominated Mostakur Rahman Jahid and JCD-backed Sheikh Nur Uddin Abir, while left alliance candidate Fuad Ratul and Chhatra Adhikar Parishad's Mehedi Maruf also remain in the race as strong contenders.
For the general secretary (GS) post, Shibir's Fahim Reza and former joint convener Salauddin Ammar are considered frontrunners, with JCD's Nafiwul Islam Jibon emerging as a potential surprise factor - making the race a likely three-way split.
The assistant general secretary (AGS) position also appears neck-and-neck, with JCD's Jaheen Biswas Esha and Shibir's Salman Sabbir locked in a close contest.
During the campus visit on Tuesday (October 14), students shared varied opinions on the upcoming polls.
Nasimul Muhit Ifat, a student, said, "The campus hasn't been this vibrant in decades. Both JCD and Shibir panels have strong bases and visible campaigns. They seem best positioned to do well."
Fariha Islam Mim, another student, remarked, "It feels great to finally get back our democratic right to vote. Though the main talk is about JCD and Shibir, many are considering independent candidates, who truly want to work for students' welfare." Papia Akter, a student of Journalism, said, "Independent candidates bring something fresh. They focus on real issues of students, rather than party politics. Many might vote for them."
Siam, a Political Science student, noted, "JCD's campaign has been very organised and visible across the campus. They might perform strongly, especially in the VP and AGS posts."
Shamim Ahmed said, "The RUCSU election has revived a new sense of enthusiasm on the campus."
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