Only 11% of candidates in Cucsu polls are women

Despite a strong female voter base at Chittagong University, women's participation in the upcoming Chittagong University Central Students' Union (Cucsu) election is very low.

Of 429 candidates, only 48 (11%) are women. For the top three posts -- vice president (VP), general secretary (GS), and assistant general secretary (AGS) -- just three women filed nominations, while none are contesting six other key positions.

According to the election commission, the Cucsu polls have 27,637 voters, with women making up an estimated 40-45 percent. Yet female representation among candidates remains minimal.

Twelve are contesting for women's welfare secretary, 11 for assistant women's welfare secretary, six for executive member, three for library and cafeteria secretary, and two each for joint GS, communication and accommodation secretary, and social services and environment secretary. For most other posts, female candidates are just one or none.

Sumaiya Shikder, a marketing student contesting for women's welfare secretary, said the authorities have fostered insecurity instead of making the campus student-friendly. "Many of my peers decided not to contest, fearing harassment both online and offline."

Mosreka Aditi Haque, associate professor of the anthropology department, echoed the concern.

"The administration has not supported women as expected," she added.

Teachers and students believe that ensuring a safe campus environment, organisational space, and housing facilities could significantly boost female participation in future elections.

Esha Dey, a student of the Institute of Fine Arts, said, "A patriarchal mindset prevails everywhere, including on campus. The strong role women played in past movements, like the July uprising, has faded.

The university has failed to create opportunities for women, Esha added.

Election Commissioner Prof Monir Uddin said the long gap in Cucsu polls has discouraged women and science faculty students from running in election race.

Nomination scrutiny is underway today. The final list will be announced on September 25, while voting is scheduled for October 12, from 9:00am to 4:00pm.