Umama Fatema’s panel protests alleged Shibir involvement in DUCSU election

Candidates from the panel led by Umama Fatema, representing Independent Student Unity, staged a protest at Dhaka University’s Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) on Monday afternoon, alleging irregularities in the ongoing student elections.

The protest began around 3:45 pm, with panel members chanting slogans, including: “Shibir-backed election not accepted”. The demonstration came in response to claims that candidates affiliated with Islami Chhatra Shibir were being allowed entry into polling centers, while independent candidates and their representatives were being restricted.

Speaking to reporters, members of Umama’s panel alleged that despite official restrictions, Shibir-supported candidates were seen accessing the polling premises, raising questions about the fairness and transparency of the election process.

Earlier in the day, Umama Fatema shared two photographs on Facebook, alleging that promotional leaflets were being distributed outside the polling center at Dr. Muhammad Shahidullah Hall. According to her, the leaflets featured two lists: one with names of candidates from the Shibir-backed United Student Alliance, and another of independent candidates.

“There are even rumors that these lists are being placed under polling booth desks,” she wrote in the post.