BNP National Standing Committee Member AZM Zahid Hossain says that questions have arisen over the “neutrality” of the recent Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union (JUCSU) elections.
Speaking to reporters on Friday morning after paying tribute at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Zahid said: "As you can see, questions are being raised about the student council elections held in different universities. The Chhatra Dal wasn’t the only people who boycotted yesterday’s JUCSU polls. Various panels, independent candidates, and even teachers boycotted the polls. There must be a reason behind it,” reports bdnews24.com.
"So, my statement will be very clear. The people of the country couldn`t cast their votes in 2009. There was an election without voters in 2014, while in 2018, voting was done under cover of night. In 2024, a dummy election was held. The people want their faith in the electoral system restored. Those involved must not organise an election which will raise questions. Otherwise, parties will stay away from elections.”
Zahid also expressed his condolences over the deaths of journalist Tariqul Islam during the DUCSU polls and Jahangirnagar University teacher Jannatul Ferdous, who passed away during the JUCSU vote count on Friday.
`DIVISION WILL PAVE WAY FOR RETURN OF AUTOCRACY’
Zahid stressed that division weakens everyone, noting that unity led to the demise of autocracy. He warned that only continued unity could prevent a return to authoritarianism.
“There’s still time. We urge everyone to unite. Those who fought for democracy, please don’t let the politics of division take hold. Promote the politics of unity. Try to understand people’s thinking. Let the people take the responsibility.”
"I would say to those involved in all the electoral processes, don`t go left or right -- adopt a middle ground and adapt to the environment with the voters and the people. You don’t need to lean towards any side. With your neutrality, you can prove your stance and the future will acknowledge it."
