In Madaripur district, rebel candidates have emerged in two of the three constituencies ahead of Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election, leaving the official BNP nominees in a difficult position. Despite being expelled from the party, the rebels are drawing local attention and raising concerns among BNP activists about the party’s chances of victory. Local leaders believe the internal divisions have put the BNP at risk in both constituencies, while candidates from the 11-party electoral alliance appear to be gaining an advantage.

In Madaripur-1, BNP’s official candidate Nadira Akter faces competition from rebels Sajjad Hossain Siddiqui and Kamal Zaman Molla, as well as alliance candidate Sayeed Uddin Ahmad Hanjala of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish. In Madaripur-2, BNP’s Jahandar Ali Jahan is challenged by rebel candidate Milton Baidya and alliance contender Abdus Sobahan. Only Madaripur-3, where BNP’s Anisur Rahman is running, remains free of rebel contenders.

Party insiders say maintaining unity and countering rebel influence have become major challenges for BNP nominees in the district.