KHULNA, Jan 31, 2026 (BSS)- As campaigning intensifies ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election, a competitive race is unfolding across Khulna Division, where major opposition parties-Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami are set for direct contests in most constituencies.

A total of 203 candidates are contesting in 36 parliamentary seats across 10 districts and Khulna metropolitan area. 
According to field-level assessments and voter interactions, BNP candidates are currently leading in 13 seats, while Jamaat candidates are ahead in 11 seats. 

The remaining 12 seats are expected to witness close two- or three-cornered contests, largely due to internal divisions and rebel candidates within BNP.

Political analysts and voters suggest that BNP risks losing several winnable seats because of party infighting and independent rebel candidates splitting votes.

Out of six seats in Khulna, BNP is leading in four (Khulna-1 to Khulna-4) while Jamaat holds strong positions in Khulna-5 and Khulna-6. Vote fragmentation among minority candidates and rebel contenders is expected to play a decisive role in several constituencies.

Among four seats in Bagerhat BNP is ahead in two seats, Jamaat in one, while one seat may see a three-way fight. Rebel BNP candidates have made the contests unpredictable, raising the possibility of last-minute turnarounds.

In Satkhira four seats, BNP leads in Satkhira-1, while Jamaat is in a strong position in Satkhira-2, 3 and 4. Independent candidates and vote splitting could influence final outcomes.

In six constituencies in Jashore, Jamaat is ahead in three, BNP in one, with two seats expected to see neck-and-neck contests. Internal BNP groupings may benefit Jamaat in some areas.

In two seats Chuadanga BNP and Jamaat are likely to lock in tight fight with no clear frontrunner so far.

In Narail BNP leads in one seat while a BNP rebel candidate is ahead in the other, creating uncertainty for the party’s official nominee.

In Jhenaidah among four seats BNP is leading in one, Jamaat in one, while two seats are likely to see two or three-way fights, largely due to rebel BNP candidates.

Two seats in Magura are tilting clearly in favour of BNP with party candidates enjoying strong grassroots support.

In Kushtia out of four seats, BNP is ahead in two, while two others are heading towards close BNP–Jamaat contests.

Two seats in Meherpur are expected to witness intense competition with BNP and Jamaat candidates locked in close races.

Observers note that the final outcome in many constituencies will depend on voter turnout, last-minute alliances, and the impact of rebel candidates.