Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Daksu) Vice President Sadiq Kayem on Thursday addressed a rally in Sylhet’s Chowhatta, organized by the newly formed ‘Oikoboddho Chhatrosongshod’, a coalition of student leaders from Daksu, Jaksu, Chaksu, Raksu, and Joksu. He said that supporting ‘Yes’ in the upcoming February 12 referendum means returning power to the people, while voting ‘No’ represents alignment with foreign interests and support for judicial killings.

Kayem stated that the ‘Yes’ campaign aims to empower citizens, ensure justice for past crimes, and dismantle what he called a fascist political structure. He claimed that students and the general public have already taken a stand for ‘Yes’ and urged Sylhet residents to intensify local campaigning. He also criticized a political faction for backing ‘No’ and accused it of serving India’s interests.

The event was attended by student leaders from several universities, Jamaat’s Sylhet-1 candidate Maulana Habibur Rahman, and Shahjalal University’s vice-chancellor. The rally caused traffic disruption at the busy Chowhatta intersection, prompting public criticism over the choice of venue.