Vote counting underway in JUCSU elections, results expected tonight

Counting of ballots in the Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union (JACSU) and Hall Parliament elections is in progress at the university’s Senate Hall after polling concluded on Thursday (September 11).

The Election Commission has said results are expected later tonight.

JUCSU Election Commission Member Secretary Professor AKM Rashidul Alam said, "Counting is being conducted in the Senate Hall and broadcast live on LED screens across the campus."

Voting was held from 9am to 5pm across 224 booths in 21 residential halls, though students already in queues were allowed to cast ballots beyond the official deadline.

This year’s election, held after 33 years, saw 177 candidates contesting 25 central posts and 477 candidates vying for 315 hall positions.

However, due to uncontested seats, voting was held in only 24 posts.

Amid the process, allegations of irregularities led four progressive student panels, along with the Chhatra Dal-backed panel, to boycott the polls and demand a re-election. Several independents also joined the boycott.

Meanwhile, the Chhatra Shibir-backed Integrated Student Alliance and its allies chose to remain in the race, despite accusing rivals of rigging and code violations.

Three teachers—Professor Nazrul Islam, Professor Shamima Sultana, and Professor Nahrin Islam Khan—also withdrew themselves from election duties shortly before voting ended, citing irregularities.

This year’s election involved seven panels—four full and three partial—along with several independent candidates. The total electorate comprised 11,919 students, including 5,728 female and 6,150 male voters.