Independent VP-elect Zitu pledges ‘inclusive Jahangirnagar’ beyond party lines

He says his first task will be to restore facilities “long denied” to students

Independent VP-elect Abdur Rashid Zitu has pledged to build an “inclusive Jahangirnagar” beyond party lines, following a JUCSU election largely swept by Islami Chhatra Shibir-backed candidates.

He said no single panel secured control of the central students’ union and promised to work with all representatives regardless of political background, prioritising student interests and the university’s welfare above party considerations.

The long-awaited election, held for the first time in 33 years, saw Zitu win the VP post as an independent, while Mazharul Islam of Shibir was elected GS.

Shibir-backed contenders secured 20 of the union’s 25 posts.

Zitu expressed gratitude to the student body for electing him by a wide margin, saying their trust had given him renewed responsibility. He pledged to remain fully committed to delivering on the commitments made during the campaign.

He said fulfilling the demands of students, especially the restoration of facilities they have been deprived of for years, would be his first task in office.

Zitu added that all candidates, elected or not, had shared a common intention of serving the student body, and he expected cooperation from all sides in building an effective and functional JUCSU.

He also vowed to work against tail-end politics on campus, ensure safety for all students, and prevent further denial of student privileges.

Commenting on the withdrawal of some candidates before the election, Zitu said their presence would have added value if they had remained in the race.

In response to a question, he said: “I have no political affiliation, but I want to work together with those who stepped back to rebuild Jahangirnagar University in a new way.”