MARCO KUYU WITHDREW his candidacy for the position of Student Federation of the University of Ottawa vp student affairs after realizing the demanding nature of the job. Kuyu, a first-year common law student, said he is required by his program to take two mandatory classes, which he wouldn’t be able to commit to if he were to win.
“When I met with Amy Hammett, I just realized the actual extent of the position,” said Kuyu. “I read the constitution, so I knew that it was quite demanding—but to the extent of working something like 60 hours per week … I did not really want to. I had to go part time, and even with that part time, I talked to some people from the faculty—I couldn’t make it.
“I didn’t want to get into something I wouldn’t be able to give my best [to], so that’s why I decided to withdraw,” he added. “For next year, I can’t take only one class; I have two mandatory classes I have to take. If I have to take those two classes and then fail, it’s not really wise.”
Kuyu said he will stay involved on campus, promoting the values he wanted to work on had he been elected to office.
“Right now, I’m involved in my faculty community,” said Kuyu. “But for this election, I really think the increase in U-Pass fees is something we can’t afford. I mean this U-Pass is the most expensive U-Pass of the country right now. If they increase it, it’s going to kill students.”
Despite thinking he made a wise choice, Kuyu said it was also a difficult one, adding he urges the candidate who wins to keep advocating for student rights.
“I withdrew, but with a lot of regret, because I think I missed another way to fulfil myself—but I had to make that choice,” said Kuyu. “I hope the candidates that will be elected will carry on the fight for students. I know it’s going to be a big task for them to carry on, but they’ll be able to do it. Good luck to them.”
—Jane Lytvynenko
