How did Pakistan respond to Jamaat's victory in Dhaka University elections?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami has claimed victory in the Dhaka University elections, sending shockwaves through the political landscape. This article explores the implications of their win and reactions from neighboring Pakistan, shedding light on the rising influence of radical Islam in Bangladeshi politics.
Key Takeaways
- Jamaat-e-Islami's student wing achieved a historic victory in DUCSU elections.
- Local media reported significant support from madrasas.
- Election results indicate a potential shift towards radical ideologies.
- Victory highlights the electoral strategy and political maneuvering within Bangladesh.
- Accusations of electoral rigging have emerged, raising questions about the integrity of the process.
Dhaka, Sep 10 (NationPress) The student faction of Bangladesh's radical Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) achieved a remarkable victory in the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) elections, with results announced on Wednesday.
A total of 471 candidates vied for 28 positions, and the Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS) panel, led by Abu Shadik Kayem, S M Farhad, and Mohiuddin Khan, secured the roles of Vice President, General Secretary, and Assistant General Secretary, respectively.
Following their electoral success, local media reported that Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan congratulated ICS on their DUCSU win, claiming that a "new history" has been created in Bangladesh.
The protests from last July and August, which galvanized student unity through aggressive actions against Hindu shrines, religious minorities, and un-Islamic cultural institutions, were significant in the ICS’s electoral success.
Analysts suggest that the reception from Pakistan indicates a troubling trend in Bangladeshi politics, as it appears to be gravitating towards radical Islam, which is often associated with violence. The victory of the JeI through strategic maneuvers has been exemplified by the ICS’s win.
This marks the first instance in DUCSU's history where JeI’s student wing contested with a complete panel, primarily due to the elections being managed under the interim administration of Muhammad Yunus and the prohibition of the ruling Awami League's Bangladesh Chhatra League.
The ICS made a public comeback in September of the previous year, following the unexpected exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which ended the 15-year dominance of the Bangladesh Chhatra League at Dhaka University.
In just one year since their re-emergence, the radical student organization has garnered significant support from students of madrasas (Islamic schools).
Meanwhile, Abidul and Umama have already denounced the DUCSU election results, labeling them as rigged and a "farce". They accused the Dhaka University administration of bringing disgrace to the nation, claiming it is dominated by Shibir loyalists.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the complexities of this electoral victory. While it reflects the changing dynamics within Bangladeshi politics, it also raises alarms about the potential shift towards radical ideologies. The implications of the Jamaat-e-Islami's growing influence warrant careful consideration and a balanced discourse to maintain national integrity and social harmony.
NationPress
26/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the DUCSU elections?
The student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) won the DUCSU elections, marking a significant victory in Bangladeshi student politics.
Who were the key figures elected in the DUCSU elections?
The key figures elected were Abu Shadik Kayem as Vice President, S M Farhad as General Secretary, and Mohiuddin Khan as Assistant General Secretary.
What was the reaction from Pakistan regarding this victory?
Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan congratulated the ICS on their victory, proclaiming that a new history has been made in Bangladesh.
What historical significance does this election hold?
This election is notable because it is the first time JeI’s student wing contested with a full panel in DUCSU history.
What criticisms have been made regarding the election process?
Critics, including Abidul and Umama, have claimed that the election results were rigged and labeled the process a farce.
