Dhaka, Aug 31 (V7N) – In a unique effort to draw voter attention, candidates in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and Hall Union elections are distributing leaflets designed to resemble Tk 1,000 currency notes. The campaign strategy has sparked discussion on campus as candidates look for creative yet compliant ways to promote themselves ahead of the September 7 election.
 
Campaigning is permitted until election day, with specific hours allocated for access to the dormitories. In male halls, candidates may campaign daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., while in female halls, the deadline is 10 p.m. However, strict rules are in place regarding promotional methods. Candidates are barred from hanging posters, banners, or festoons anywhere on campus. Leaflet distribution remains the only allowed form of physical campaigning.
 
One such leaflet, mimicking the appearance of a real Tk 1,000 note, has been circulated by candidate Md. Arafat Hossain, a student from the Marketing Department contesting for the post of Executive Member of DUCSU. Where the original banknote bears the name of the central bank governor, Arafat’s campaign version reads: “Vote for Md. Arafat Hossain, candidate for Executive Member of DUCSU, at ballot number 170.” The leaflet is signed by campaign coordinator Ali Hossain Mintu.
 
While the leaflet complies with campaign guidelines by avoiding unauthorized physical posting, it raises questions about the influence of creative mimicry in student politics and whether such materials may blur the lines between acceptable campaigning and manipulation of visual familiarity.
 
The DUCSU elections have long been a vital part of student political engagement at Dhaka University, and the current campaign is being closely observed to ensure fairness and adherence to the code of conduct.
 
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