Dhaka University is set to hold its much-anticipated Central Students’ Union (Daksu) elections on Tuesday, marking a historic moment in the country’s academic and democratic journey. Ahead of the polls, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan has urged students to come forward without fear and participate in shaping the institution’s democratic legacy.

In a video message released Monday afternoon through the university’s official Facebook page, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the significance of the polls, which come after months of preparation. “The entire nation is watching us and extending their best wishes,” he said. “Through a fair and participatory election, Dhaka University is taking an important step in institutionalizing democracy. I expect you, the students, to fulfill your role in this process.”

He reminded students that the demand for the Daksu election came directly from them. “You wanted this election, you deeply expected it, and it aligns with the fundamental values of the mass movements that have shaped our history. This election is not merely about voting; it is about institutionalizing democratic aspirations and building a collective voice against injustice,” he explained.

Professor Khan assured students that all necessary arrangements had been made to ensure a safe and inclusive voting environment, with particular emphasis on female students. “Special measures have been taken for our female students, and I assure you they can come to the centers without fear. The nation has placed its trust in you, and it is your responsibility to honor that trust,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor also reflected on the university’s long preparation for this moment. “We are at the final stage of nearly 11 months of extensive preparation involving all stakeholders. Tomorrow is the long-awaited day. The voting will begin at 8 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. across the central and hall councils,” he added.

Calling the upcoming polls historic, Professor Khan said several new initiatives have been introduced to make the process more transparent and credible than ever before. “This year’s election is unique in many ways. For the first time, we are holding the polls at eight central centers instead of restricting them to the halls. We will operate 810 booths to accommodate nearly 40,000 registered voters. To ensure maximum transparency, the entire process will be monitored with CCTV cameras, three layers of security, and a dedicated team of trained polling officers,” he explained.

He also noted that the election officials are individuals with diverse ideological backgrounds but with widespread acceptance in society. “Those who are serving as returning officers are respected figures committed to neutrality. The counting process will be broadcast openly through LED screens, and a large number of journalists will be present to monitor the proceedings,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor reminded all candidates of the spirit of democracy, urging them to accept both victory and defeat with grace. “We have overcome numerous obstacles to reach this stage together. As with any election, some candidates will win, and others will not. But both the victorious and the defeated will play vital roles in institutionalizing democracy at Dhaka University. The true success lies in the fact that, after so many years, we are once again part of this historic democratic exercise,” he stated.

The numbers reflect the magnitude of this year’s election. A total of 39,874 students are eligible to cast their ballots—18,959 female students and 20,915 male students. In the contest for 28 posts, 471 candidates are vying for positions. Among them, 409 are men and 62 are women.

With security, transparency, and inclusiveness at the forefront, Dhaka University’s campus is bracing for a pivotal day. For many, the election represents more than just a student leadership contest; it stands as a symbol of democratic continuity in one of the nation’s most historic institutions.

“The nation is watching us,” the Vice-Chancellor reiterated in his final remarks. “This election is not only about who wins and who loses, but about reinforcing our shared values of democracy, responsibility, and unity. Together, we can turn this day into a milestone in Dhaka University’s proud history.”