RUCSU elections: Final day to withdraw nominations, candidate list out tomorrow

Today marks the final day for candidates to withdraw their nominations for the Rajshahi University Central Students' Union (RACSU) elections, scheduled for September 25.

The final list of candidates will be published tomorrow, Sunday, following which formal campaigning will begin under the election code of conduct.

According to the Election Commission, 20 candidates are vying for the Vice President (VP) post, 14 for General Secretary (GS), and 16 for Assistant General Secretary (AGS).

Nine panels have been announced so far by various student organisations and independent groups, though only Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Shibir have presented full slates of candidates.

From the Chhatra Dal panel, Sheikh Nur Uddin Abir is contesting for VP, Nafiul Jibon for GS, and Jahin Biswas Esha for AGS. Chhatra Shibir-backed ‘Sammilito Chhatra Jote’ has Mostaqur Rahman (alias Zahid) for VP, Fazle Rabbi Md. Fahim Reza for GS, and SM Salman Sabbir for AGS.

The Rucsu for Radical Change panel has nominated Mehedi Maruf (VP), Afrin Jahan (GS), and Al Shahriar Shuvo (AGS). From the Gonotantrik Shikkharthi Council panel, Fuad Ratul (VP), Kausar Ahmed (GS), and Nasim Sarkar (AGS) will contest.

The Adhipotya Birodhi Oikya panel includes Mehedi Shojib (VP), Salauddin Ammar (GS), and Akil Bin Taleb (AGS). The Sorbojonin Student Songshod panel has fielded Tasin Khan (VP), Rajan Al Ahmed (GS), and Mahair Islam (AGS). Tasin Khan is notably the first female VP candidate leading a panel in RACSU's 63-year history.

Chief Election Commissioner Prof. F. Nazrul Islam confirmed that campaigning may begin tomorrow once the final list is released. Voting will be held on September 25 from 9am to 4pm, with counting and results to follow the same day.