Tensions escalate on campus over the timing of student union elections

A Renewed Focus on Student Union Elections in Bangladesh

Student union elections in Bangladesh’s public universities hold a rich history, beginning with the establishment of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Ducsu) in 1953. Often referred to as the "second parliament of Bangladesh," these elections played crucial roles in major national movements, including the Language Movement and the Liberation War. Despite their significance, these elections have faced obstacles and undergone reforms, with the last Ducsu election held in 1990 and a recent one in March 2019.

Following the fall of the Ershad government in 1990 and the rise of democratic administrations, student union elections were largely suspended in universities and colleges. Although a Ducsu election was held in 2019 at Dhaka University (DU), it failed to establish continuity. Other institutions also refrained from organizing such elections during this long hiatus.

However, recent demands for student union elections have gained traction after the July student uprising. The DU administration has announced plans for a Ducsu election by February. Meanwhile, Jahangirnagar University (JU) has made significant progress by forming an election commission for the Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union (Jucsu). A draft voter list was published, and the election date is expected to be announced by February 1.

Diverging Opinions on Election Timing

Disagreements among student organizations have emerged regarding the timing of elections. The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and Islami Chhatra Shibir are pushing for elections to be held promptly, citing the need to honor students’ demands. In contrast, groups like Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chatradal argue for constitutional reforms and more preparation time, emphasizing the need for a fair and inclusive electoral process.

Naimul Hasan Koushik, joint convenor of JU’s Chatradal, remarked, “After 17 years away from campus, we need time to re-establish normal politics and allow students to know us before a fair election can take place.” Similar sentiments were shared by other groups like the Bangladesh Students’ Union and the Socialist Students’ Front, who advocate for necessary reforms before elections.

Administrative Perspectives

The Jucsu election commission has reiterated its commitment to holding elections as per the existing constitution. Chief Election Commissioner Professor Moniruzzaman noted, “The commission is following the administration’s roadmap, with practical steps already underway.”

Calls for reforms have been addressed by figures like Arifuzzaman Ujjol of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, who emphasized that constitutional reforms can only be carried out by elected representatives.

Broader Implications and Debates

Beyond Jucsu, discussions about student union elections at other institutions, such as Chittagong University (Chaksu) and Rajshahi University (Rucsu), have also resurfaced. Chaksu, which last held an election in 1990, and Rucsu, which has seen 14 elections since 1962, are now experiencing renewed demands for electoral processes.

Nurul Haque Nur, the last elected VP of Ducsu, underscored the importance of these elections for nurturing future political leaders. “Student unions are crucial for fostering progressive leadership. The continuity of elections must be restored to ensure a vibrant democratic culture,” he stated.

As momentum builds across campuses, the debate over the timing, reforms, and readiness for student union elections highlights the delicate balance between honoring historical traditions and adapting to contemporary demands.