Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadiq Kayem has criticized the decision to halt student union elections at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology and Begum Rokeya University, calling it an undemocratic move. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, January 13, after a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission, he said students would not accept the suspension on security grounds.

Kayem stated that the elections were scheduled to be held on time, but certain quarters did not want them to proceed, leading to the issuance of a notification postponing the polls. He emphasized that discussions were held to ensure all necessary security so the elections could take place as planned, and the Election Commission had given assurances in this regard.

He also mentioned that students would campaign for a “yes” vote in the referendum, while accusing those promoting a “no” vote of trying to preserve past fascist practices and wrongdoing.