Shibir-Backed Somonnito Shikkharthi Jote Sweeps JUCSU Polls
JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY, Sept 13, 2025 (BSS) — The Somonnito Shikkharthi Jote, a student panel supported by Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir, has achieved a decisive victory in the Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union (JUCSU) elections, securing a majority of the key positions.
In a significant political shift on campus, Zitu Rahman was elected as the Vice President (VP), while Mazharul Islam secured the position of General Secretary (GS). Both candidates hail from the Shibir-backed alliance, which dominated the electoral race, signaling a change in student political dynamics at the university.
Key Positions Go to Shibir-Aligned Candidates
Out of the total 19 posts contested in the latest JUCSU elections, candidates from the Somonnito Shikkharthi Jote claimed 14, including the top three leadership roles. Alongside Zitu and Mazharul, Fatema Jahan was elected as the Assistant General Secretary (AGS), further consolidating the panel’s control of the union.
This landslide victory marks the first time in over a decade that a Shibir-supported panel has taken such a dominant role within the JUCSU leadership. The win reflects growing support among the student body for alternative voices in campus politics, a space traditionally dominated by other major student organizations.
Voter Turnout and Electoral Process
According to university sources, the election witnessed a high voter turnout, with over 70% of registered students casting their votes. The voting process was conducted peacefully across multiple centers on campus under tight security, with university officials and law enforcement ensuring a smooth operation throughout the day.
Returning Officer Dr. Salma Akhter from the Department of Government and Politics confirmed the results late in the evening, stating that the elections were held transparently and without major incident. “We are proud of the student body for participating actively and respectfully in this democratic process,” she said.
Reactions from the Student Community
Following the announcement of the results, supporters of the Somonnito Shikkharthi Jote gathered outside the university’s administrative building to celebrate their victory. Chants, slogans, and a peaceful procession marked the occasion as hundreds of students joined in the celebration.
Zitu Rahman, the newly elected Vice President, expressed gratitude to the students for their support. “This victory is not just ours—it belongs to every student who believed in change. We promise to work for the welfare of all students, regardless of their political affiliation,” he stated during a post-election press briefing.
Mazharul Islam, now serving as General Secretary, echoed similar sentiments. “Our priorities include improving academic facilities, ensuring student rights, and enhancing campus security. We aim to build a JUCSU that truly represents the voice of the students.”
Mixed Reactions from Opposition Panels
The dramatic sweep by the Shibir-backed panel has stirred reactions among rival student organizations. Representatives of the Progressive Student Alliance, which had significant representation in the previous union, expressed concern over the rise of a religiously backed political group in the student leadership.
“While we respect the democratic process, we are worried about the ideological implications of this result,” said Tanvir Hasan, a spokesperson for the alliance. “We will continue to work as a constructive opposition and ensure that student interests remain the priority.”
University Administration’s Response
University authorities have pledged to cooperate with the new JUCSU leadership and provide necessary support to help them serve the student body effectively. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Farzana Islam congratulated the elected representatives and urged them to uphold the values of inclusivity and academic excellence.
“We believe that student representation is vital for the healthy functioning of our university. We look forward to working together to address the various challenges faced by our students,” she remarked during a post-election press conference.
Implications for Campus Politics
The results of the JUCSU elections are expected to have long-term consequences for campus politics at Jahangirnagar University. The victory of the Shibir-backed panel may inspire similar groups at other universities to contest future student elections with renewed vigor.
Political analysts suggest that the win reflects a broader shift in student sentiment, possibly indicating disillusionment with traditional student groups and a desire for fresh leadership. However, they also caution that the new leadership will be under scrutiny to demonstrate inclusivity and effective governance.
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