Cucsu polls: Shibir aims to retain dominance, JCD seeks comeback

The Chittagong University campus has heated up ahead of the long-awaited Chittagong University Central Students' Union (Cucsu) election slated for October 15, the first in 35 years.

As polling day draws nearer, the two main contending panels backed by Islami Chhatra Shibir and Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) have intensified their campaigns.

After recent victories in the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (Ducsu) and Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (Jucsu) elections, Shibir is determined to extend its winning streak to Chittagong University.

On the other hand, Chhatra Dal, aiming to bounce back from consecutive defeats, has launched a spirited campaign to reclaim its lost ground and student confidence.

Candidates from both panels have been engaging with voters through door-to-door campaigns across residential halls and academic buildings. Shibir's candidates say they are contesting the election to ensure students' rights, a safe campus, and value-based leadership.

Chhatra Dal, meanwhile, has been conducting leaflet campaigns and visiting different departments and dormitories.

"This time, we expect to see real competition," said Abdur Razzak, a student of the political science department's 2019–20 session.

"Several candidates have a track record of working for students' welfare. We just hope the most deserving ones win," he added.

Saeed Bin Habib, general secretary candidate from the Chhatra Shibir backed panel, said, "The environment at Chittagong University is different from Ducsu or Jucsu. Students here trust us because we have worked for them throughout the year through various educational initiatives. Our panel is ready to lead responsibly."

Chhatra Dal backed panel's vice president candidate Sazzad Hossain Hridoy said, "We have always stood by the students and will continue to be their voice. If elected, ensuring students' rights will be our top priority. Although we could not win at Ducsu or Jucsu, we are getting a positive response this time and are hopeful about the outcome at Cucsu."