DUCSU VP’s Resignation Fuels Dhaka Mayoral Race Speculation
Shadik Kayem, the current Vice-President of Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU), has made a notable move. He recently stepped down from his role as Central International Secretary of Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir. This organization is the student wing of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami.
Mr. Kayem’s resignation comes as he is being considered as a potential mayoral candidate for the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) election. Sources close to the matter suggest that his departure from the student group is part of his preparations to contest the upcoming mayoral race.
Mr. Kayem announced his decision on social media. He reflected on his time with Chhatra Shibir, calling it a “golden chapter.” He also expressed gratitude for his experiences within the organization.
The prospect of Mr. Kayem running for mayor gained momentum last month. During a meeting of Jamaat-e-Islami’s Central Executive Council, his name was approved as a prospective candidate for the DSCC mayoral position. However, the final decision on the nomination still rests with the party’s highest policymaking body, the Majlish-e-Shura. A formal announcement from the central leadership has not yet been made.
Hamidur Rahman Azad, an Assistant Secretary General for Jamaat-e-Islami, explained that Chhatra Shibir members often leave the organization. This typically happens after they finish their studies, get married, or begin their professional lives. He suggested Mr. Kayem’s departure might follow these established practices. Mr. Azad also confirmed that Jamaat’s Dhaka South City unit has nominated Mr. Kayem, and the central leadership holds a positive view of this nomination.
Mr. Kayem himself confirmed his resignation, stating he took “leave from the organization through the proper process.” He added, “Time will tell what lies ahead,” regarding his future plans.
This particular resignation has attracted more public attention than usual. This is largely due to Mr. Kayem’s current position as DUCSU Vice-President. There is also a strong expectation that he will represent Jamaat in the DSCC mayoral election.
Leaving the organization before a full term is not uncommon for Chhatra Shibir leaders. One central leader, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that around 20 leaders resigned last year for various reasons. The organization typically restructures its central committee mid-term, with members applying for leave due to life changes.
In addition to Mr. Kayem, eight other members of Chhatra Shibir’s central committee have also recently stepped down. These include the Central Media Secretary Mutasim Billah, Human Resource Development Secretary Sharif Mahmud, Student Rights Secretary Muhibur Rahman, and others. Mr. Billah stated that his departure followed the organization’s usual procedures for members moving into professional careers after completing their studies.
