Candidates from Abid-Hamim-Mayed panel, supported by Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD), formally took their oath on Sunday afternoon ahead of the upcoming Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) and hall union elections.
The ceremony was held under the banyan tree near Arts Building, just two days before polls scheduled for 9 September.
The oath-taking event was announced a day earlier in a press release signed by JCD’s Office Secretary, Mallik Wasi Uddin Tami.
This year’s election has drawn a record number of 471 candidates, including 62 women, contesting for 28 positions in DUCSU and various hall unions.
During the ceremony, the candidates pledged to uphold eight key commitments if elected.
Among their top priorities was the abolition of controversial "gonoroom" system and a firm stand against political repression, which they claimed had characterized previous administrations they described as “fascist regimes.”
The panel also vowed to defend democratic values and referred to their involvement in July 2024 student uprising, along with historic struggles like 1971 Liberation War.
Women’s rights and safety featured prominently in candidates’ pledges.
They promised secure housing, better access to healthcare and equal rights for female students.
The panel also committed to ensuring lawful seat allotments in residential halls, as well as access to affordable, nutritious food, improved healthcare services and reliable transportation for all students.
The candidates addressed contemporary issues as well, vowing to fight cyberbullying, online harassment and the spread of misinformation targeting Dhaka University students.
They also pledged to enhance academic quality, promote cultural and sports activities and maintain democratic integrity in student governance.
Concluding their oath, the panel stated that every candidate is committed to these principles and promised transparent and accountable leadership if elected.
The event ended with a call for student unity in building a campus rooted in equality, human dignity and student welfare.
NRE/SH
