Emi’s Stance Shifts on Hasina’s DUCSU Lifetime Membership Proposal

In 2019, Sheikh Tasnim Afroz Emi, elected as the Vice President (VP) of Shamsunnahar Hall from an independent panel in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election, proposed making former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina a lifetime member of DUCSU. This proposal, made during a private TV talk show, cited Hasina’s sincerity as a former Dhaka University student and her hospitality at Ganabhaban, crediting her for enabling a fair DUCSU election. Emi argued that Hasina’s contributions warranted this honor, despite acknowledging irregularities in some polling stations. The proposal faced opposition from then-DUCSU VP Nurul Haq Nur and Social Service Secretary Akhtar Hossain. Nonetheless, on May 30, 2019, DUCSU’s second executive meeting approved Hasina’s lifetime membership, though Nur’s signature was absent from the decision.

Recently, a viral video of Emi’s 2019 statement sparked renewed scrutiny. Responding on Facebook, Emi clarified her current stance: “I’ve seen fragmented parts of my 2019 statement about making Sheikh Hasina a lifetime DUCSU member being circulated. Many are asking about my position now. I want to be crystal clear: I demand the highest justice for innocent people and those who ordered student killings. Full stop.” This marks a sharp departure from her earlier support, reflecting criticism of Hasina’s tenure, particularly after the 2024 student-led uprising.

At a press conference on August 19, 2025, when questioned about Emi’s past proposal, Meghmallar Basu, the General Secretary candidate from the Left Democratic Student Alliance (Emi’s coalition for the 2025 DUCSU election), reacted sharply, saying, “Discuss this separately with Emi Apa, not at this press conference.” Emi, now running for VP under the same alliance, faces heightened attention as her old stance clashes with her coalition’s current narrative.

The 2025 DUCSU and Hall elections are set for September 9, with campaigns heating up across Dhaka University. Emi’s shift aligns with broader sentiments post-2024, where Hasina’s legacy is under fire, but her coalition’s defensive response suggests lingering sensitivity around the issue.