Rajshahi University Elections: 247 Candidates Vie for 23 Posts as Students Prepare to Vote After 35-Year Hiatus

Rajshahi University student union elections are heating up, with 247 candidates vying for 23 posts in the Central Students' Union (RUCSU). A total of 597 candidates are contesting for residential hall union elections, and 58 candidates are in the running for senate representative positions. The election, which is taking place after a 35-year hiatus, has sparked enthusiasm among the 28,901 registered voters, with 17,596 male and 11,305 female voters eager to participate.

Campaigning is in full swing, with candidates from various panels, such as Islami Chhatra Shibir-backed Sammilita Shikkharthi Oikyo, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal-backed Oikyoboddho Notun Projonmo, and left-leaning RUCSU for Radical Change, actively reaching out to voters. They are campaigning door-to-door, individually or in pairs, and have also embraced digital platforms, particularly social media, to connect with voters, especially first-year students. The university administration has bolstered security measures, deploying around 30 police officers and setting up checkpoints at main gates to ensure a peaceful election process. Campaigning is allowed daily from 10:00am to 10:00pm until 24 hours before polling, according to the election code of conduct.

With two days left until the election, candidates are making a final push to secure votes. Students are encouraged to stay informed about the candidates by checking local news sources, official university channels, or social media platforms. The historic election is a significant opportunity for students to have their voices heard and shape the future of their Texas university.