Vice president (VP) candidate Umama Fatema has raised concerns about violations of the election code of conduct inside polling centers, despite expressing satisfaction over the large turnout of both residential and non-residential female students.
While visiting the TSC polling center on Tuesday morning, the VP candidate from the 'Swadhin Shikkharthi Oikya' (Independent Student Unity) panel said, “It’s truly delightful to see so many girls coming out enthusiastically to vote. We initially thought the turnout, especially from non-residential female students, would be low.
“But Alhamdulillah, I would say that non-residential students, particularly women, are showing a lot of enthusiasm in participating. It’s a matter of pride for Dhaka University and for all of us. Students are clearly aware of their responsibilities and voting rights.”
Umama Fatema added, “We are hopeful for a good outcome. However, the voting lines are moving very slowly. As you can see, a long queue has formed here.”
She also mentioned issues regarding polling agents and alleged several violations inside polling centers. “There are serious breaches of the code of conduct happening inside the centers. We are concerned about how fair the field really is and whether there will be attempts at sabotage.”
“It’s not permitted for candidates to enter polling centers, yet some are doing so—especially at male dormitory polling stations. Posters and leaflets are also being distributed. These things worry us,” she said.
Umama Fatema arrived at the TSC center at 9:45 a.m. Prior to that, she visited the polling centers at the Department of Geology and the University Laboratory School.
Speaking to journalists, she said, “So far, students are voting in a very festive atmosphere. However, we’re getting reports that some candidates are entering the centers, which is a violation of the rules.
“Other than that, the voting environment is good. We’re seeing a lot of enthusiasm among students, and that’s heartening.”
SR
