FARIDPUR, located in central Bangladesh under the Dhaka Division, is one of the country's historically, politically, culturally, and economically significant districts. It is bounded by the Padma River to the north-east. Known for its political heritage, agricultural richness, and contribution to the national economy, the district holds a unique place in history.
Faridpur is named after the 14th-century Sufi saint Shah Sheikh Fariduddin, whose shrine remains a sacred site in the district town. Thousands of devotees visit annually, underscoring the area's spiritual significance. The district is also dotted with mosques, temples, and madrasas that reflect the region's deep religious traditions.
Culturally, Faridpur has been a hub of folk music, theatre, and festivals. Traditional performances such as Jatra Pala and Baul songs thrive in rural areas. The district's rivers and fertile fields also inspire local crafts and pottery, preserving a heritage that blends spirituality with artistry.
Faridpur is often called the "heartland of jute." Once dubbed the "golden fibre of Bengal," jute cultivation in Faridpur has earned global recognition for its quality. The district's jute is especially famous and contributes significantly to Bangladesh's jute export earnings.
Besides jute, Faridpur is also well-known for its sugarcane production, housing the Madhukhali Sugar Mills, one of the oldest mills in the country. Paddy, wheat, and various vegetables are cultivated in abundance due to the district's fertile soil, enriched by the Padma and its tributaries.
In recent years, the Padma Bridge, which connects Faridpur more directly to Dhaka and other regions, has further boosted trade and investment opportunities. The bridge has transformed Faridpur into a key transit point between the capital and the country's southwest.
The district has also a strong tradition of social reform movements. In the British and Pakistan eras, Faridpur was known for its activists who opposed oppression and fought for peasant rights. Social reformers from the district worked to spread education, challenge feudal systems, and modernise rural life.
Faridpur holds a crucial place in Bangladesh's political history and contemporary electoral landscape. This district's constituencies are often closely watched during elections because they reflect wider national trends. The district's voters are politically active and have a history of swinging between Awami League (AL), Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and other parties, depending on the national mood. With its mix of historical legacy, influential leaders, and competitive constituencies, Faridpur remains one of the most politically significant regions in Bangladesh.
The political atmosphere in Faridpur is heating up ahead of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election, with BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis candidates intensifying their campaigns in key constituencies. Once considered strongholds of the ruling AL, the shifting political scenario, combined with AL's non-participation in the upcoming election, has altered the electoral equation in both Faridpur-1 and Faridpur-2.
Across Faridpur's four constituencies, NCP has not yet shown any active campaigning or announced candidates. Controversy has arisen within NCP's Bhanga committee, with two members resigning over claims of unfair assessment.
FARIDPUR-1: This constituency comprises Boalmari, Alfadanga, and Madhukhali upazilas.
Historically, the seat has been dominated by the AL, which enjoyed a commanding influence here. This time, however, BNP leaders are determined to snatch victory by striking at the AL's traditional vote bank.
Already, the campaign trail is crowded with multiple BNP aspirants, alongside finalised candidates from Jamaat and Khelafat Majlis. Motor processions, roadside rallies, courtyard meetings, and public gatherings have become a common sight across the three upazilas. Posters, banners, festoons, and billboards blanket the key intersections and marketplaces, reflecting the feverish campaign pace.
Three BNP figures are seeking nomination in this parliamentary seat. Among them, the two most prominent are former lawmaker and Central Vice-President of Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal Khandaker Nasirul Islam, and former vice-president of Boalmari College, ex-JCD leader, and former BNP Upazila joint secretary Shamsuddin Mia Jhunu. Both have been campaigning vigorously, but their appeal differs. While Nasirul Islam is ahead in terms of campaign visibility and organisation, Jhunu is widely considered more popular among the grassroots for his accessibility and long-standing political sacrifices.
Jhunu, addressing gatherings, highlighted his ordeals under previous regimes: "I have been subjected to repeated oppression and harassment. Ruling party miscreants attacked my home, looted valuables, and even set it on fire. Yet I never abandoned my workers and supporters. I spent years in prison defending the BNP flag. I have consistently supported schools, colleges, mosques, temples, and social institutions in these three upazilas. My mission is the overall development of our people."
On the other hand, Nasirul Islam stressed his clean image and political legacy: "I have been with BNP since the grassroots level, recognised across the constituency as a politician of principle. I endured persecution during difficult times and never abandoned the cause. My record speaks for itself-I have always stood by the people for their economic and social development."
A third BNP aspirant, former central joint secretary of Jubo Dal Moniruzzaman Monir also declared his intention to seek nomination. "People in the area have responded enthusiastically to my candidacy," Monir said. "If nominated, I will dedicate myself fully to the welfare of the constituency."
Jamaat has declared Professor Dr. Md. Ilyas Mollah, a prominent educationist and former chairman of the Chemistry Department at Jahangirnagar University, who enjoys wide recognition in academic and social circles.
"I have dedicated my life to education and infrastructure development here. I believe people will judge me by my contributions and elect me as a qualified candidate," Dr. Mollahs said.
Meanwhile, Khelafat Majlis is fielding Mufti Sharafat Hossain, Joint Secretary General of the party's Central Committee and Convener of Bangladesh Khelafat Sramik Majlish.
"For years, the people of this region have suffered inequality and deprivation," Mufti Hossain said. "They now want an honest, competent, and hardworking leader. I promise to fulfil their expectations and win the battle with their support, Inshallah."
In contrast, other political outfits such as the National Citizen Party (NCP), Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB), Jatiya Party( Ja Pa), and Zaker Party are barely visible on the ground.
NCP's possible contender Md. Hasibur Rahman Apu, District Coordinator, has made occasional appearances, while IAB has engaged sporadically through its local leader Md. Waliur Rahman Russell, an Advisory Member of the district branch. Still, their campaigns lack momentum compared to the BNP, Jamaat, and Khelafat Majlish drive.
FARIDPUR-2: This constituency consists of Nagarkanda and Saltha upazilas.
The seat holds symbolic importance in Bangladesh's political history.
It was once the seat of two political heavyweights: K.M. Obaidur Rahman, former BNP secretary general, and Syeda Sajeda Chowdhury, former presidium member of the AL. Both leaders are now dead, but their legacies continue to shape the constituency's politics.
In the 11th national election, Sajeda's son Shahdab Akbar Labu Chowdhury won as AL's candidate, while Obaidur Rahman's daughter Shama Obaid Islam Rinku lost as BNP's nominee. With AL absent from the upcoming polls, voters widely expect the seat to tilt in favour of BNP, given the enduring influence of Obaidur Rahman's legacy and Rinku's organisational strength.
Shama Obaid is considered the frontrunner for BNP's nomination. Her loyal supporters have already launched campaign activities, staging showdowns and rallies across Nagarkanda and Saltha. Her appeal among BNP workers lies in her resilience and her symbolic representation of her late father's political heritage.
Former BNP general secretary of Nagarkanda Upazila Saifur Rahman Mukul remarked: "This seat belongs to Shama Obaid. Voters are eager to cast their ballots for her. I am confident she will win by a record margin."
However, another veteran politician Advocate Liaquat Ali Khan Bulu, former Upazila BNP president, is also campaigning vigorously. He has been traversing the constituency with Tarique Rahman's 31-point reform agenda. "BNP's tested and devoted leaders are with me," Bulu said. "I have worked for the party during its hardship, enduring torture and imprisonment. If nominated, I will secure a landslide victory."
Jamaat has declared Sohrab Hossain, Ameer of Nagarkanda Upazila unit, as its candidate. However, his campaign has been relatively quiet, with little visibility in public spaces. In contrast, Khelafat Majlish has chosen Allama Shah Akram Ali, a respected elder cleric and Member of the Central Guardian Council. Although not an active politician, his reputation as an Islamic scholar and preacher has granted him notable influence, especially in Saltha. Analysts consider him a potential challenger to BNP due to his grassroots credibility.
Minor parties such as NCP, IAB , JaPa, and Zaker Party have failed to register significant activities. While IAB has held occasional showdowns, their impact remains limited.
FARIDPUR-3: This constituency covers Sadar Upazila.
This constituency, regarded as a prestigious seat, is already abuzz with election activities. Possible candidates are campaigning in different ways, creating much enthusiasm among political leaders and activists.
With the upcoming national election in focus, aspirants from BNP, Jamaat, and Khelafat Majlish have entered the field. Alongside rallies, yard meetings, and social events, large banners and festoons of the contenders now adorn the city and unions. In addition to regular political programmes, they are strategically conducting election campaigns.
From the BNP, three aspirants are vying for nomination. They are-Joint Secretary of the BNP's Central Women's Wing and Convener of the Dhaka North Women's Unit Chowdhury Nayba Yusuf, Convener of the Faridpur District BNP Advocate Syed Modarres Ali Isha, and former vice-president of the BNP's Central Jubo Dal Mahbubul Hasan Bhuiyan Pinku.
Jamaat has one candidate in the field-Professor Abdut Tawab, a member of the Party's Central Shura.
From Khelafat Majlish, the candidate is its Faridpur District President Maulana Amzad Hossain. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh has fielded its Central Assistant Secretary General, Mufti Kamruzzaman. IAB has nominated K.M. Sarwar, the party's Organizing Secretary for the Faridpur Division.
Speculation is rife that former FBCCI President Abdul Kader Azad, popularly known as A.K. Azad, may also contest this election. In the 12th National Election, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) from this constituency as an independent candidate.
This seat is considered a BNP stronghold. From this constituency, BNP Vice-Chairman and former minister Chowdhury Kamal Ibne Yusuf was elected five times. However, in the 2008 election, due to rifts within the BNP-Jamaat alliance, the AL candidate won. In later elections, BNP's boycott and alleged mid-night voting again ensured victory for the Awami League.
Following the passing of Chowdhury Kamal Ibne Yusuf, his eldest daughter Chowdhury Nayba Yusuf has taken to the field as his political successor. Every day, she is seen conducting public contact programmes across different areas. As the granddaughter of a zamindar family and daughter of Kamal Ibne Yusuf, she enjoys widespread acceptance in the political field.
Chowdhury Nayba Yusuf said, "Faridpur-3 is a BNP stronghold. My father was elected multiple times from this constituency and built it as a BNP bastion. Inshallah, the BNP candidate will win here by a huge margin. I believe the party's high command will award me the 'Paddy Sheaf' symbol."
Another aspirant, Advocate Syed Modarres Ali Isha, said, "I have always stood by the BNP leaders and activists in times of joy and hardship. I was the founding president of the Jatiyatabadi Chatra Dal. I have never abandoned the party. Despite repression and torture, I helped strengthen the organization. I believe the party will certainly recognize my contribution."
Former Jubo Dal Central leader Mahbubul Hasan Bhuiyan Pinku said, "As a BNP worker, I have risked my life for the party, joining every movement and struggle. I have faced many attacks and lawsuits. For the past 16 years, during BNP's difficult times, I stood by the leaders and activists. When many went into hiding with cases hanging over them, I extended financial help to their families. When no senior leader dared to hit the streets, I was among the few who braved the risks to protest. I hope the party high command will remember this sacrifice and grant me the 'Paddy sheaf'. If I get the symbol, I will surely win by a landslide."
Jamaat also holds a significant vote bank in this constituency. Its lone candidate Professor Abdut Tawab, said, "I have long worked to establish a just society. I regularly interact with people from remote villages. They want to elect an honest and qualified individual. I believe I have the love and trust of the people of Faridpur-3."
Jamiat Ulema's candidate, Mufti Kamruzzaman, said, "The people want change. They are eager to elect a candidate who is trusted for action, not just words. The central leadership has nominated me. We are trying to convince the people that when the power rests with the ulema, peace and order will prevail in society. Corruption, bribery, immorality, and anti-social behaviour will end. We will try to build a better society for the people."
Joint Coordinator of the NCP District unit S.M. Zahid Hossain said, "The central leadership has not yet announced any candidate. Once the candidate is finalised, we will begin our campaign."
Voters believe the contest in this prestigious constituency will largely remain between BNP and Jamaat. However, if Abdul Kader Azad enters the fray as an independent candidate, it could turn into a three-way race.
FARIDPUR-4: This parliamentary seat includes Bhanga, Sadarpur, and Charbhadrasan upazilas.
This constituency is shaping up to be a hotly contested battleground in the upcoming national election. Several aspirants have already entered the field, putting up posters, billboards, and festoons while extending greetings to voters alongside traditional campaigning.
From the BNP, multiple contenders are seeking nomination. They include Shahidul Islam Babul, General Secretary of the BNP's Central Krishak Dal; Advocate Ali Ashraf Nannu, former vice-president of Government Rajendra College; Alhaj Zahidul Haque Shahazada Mia, Adviser to BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia; and Advocate Md. Mahbubur Rahman Dulal, Organizing Secretary of the Supreme Court unit of Jatiyatabadi Ainjibi Forum for the Faridpur Division. Additionally, the names of Bhanga Upazila BNP President Khondkar Iqbal Hossain Selim and JASAS Central Vice-President Shahriyar Islam Shayla are also being discussed.
From Jamaat-e-Islami, the lone candidate in the field is Maulana Sarowar Hossain, Amir of the party's Bhanga unit. "I have been working for a long time to strengthen Jamaat in this constituency," he said. "The party's central forum has directed me to continue. I am moving across the area, meeting common people and sharing my message."
Khelafat Majlish candidate Mizanur Rahman Molla is also active in campaigning. He said, "For years, the people of this constituency have been victims of oppression. There has been little meaningful development. Voters now want change. If elected, I will do my best to ensure development for them."
BNP Krishak Dal leader Shahidul Islam Babul expressed optimism about his prospects. "I have been working for the party for a long time," he said. "From my days in Chhatra Dal to Jubo Dal, I have fought many struggles, faced jail and torture, and endured political persecution, including 128 cases against me. I have always stood by the people of this constituency while working to strengthen the party. The leadership holds a positive view of me. I believe the party will evaluate me fairly. If I secure nomination, Inshallah, I will win by a huge margin."
Advocate Ali Ashraf Nannu, former Rajshahi University Central Students' Union (RUCSU) VP and ex-organizing secretary of the District BNP, also voiced his expectations. "For more than three and a half decades, I have worked for the party, always standing by leaders and activists in good times and bad," he said. "During the regimes of Ershad and Hasina, I repeatedly endured attacks and lawsuits. The people of this constituency have long been neglected, and they now seek change. I believe the party will nominate me."
Advocate Mahbubur Rahman Dulal added, "I have always been in the field during movements and struggles. I have worked extensively for the people of this constituency. I hope the party will value my contributions."
Independent candidate Mufti Raihan Jamil has also been actively campaigning. Known for his long-standing engagement in social service, he said, "To me, politics is not about gaining power but about serving people. Regardless of party, class, or religion, I want to stand by the people of Faridpur-4, safeguard their rights, and work for their development."
With BNP fielding multiple contenders, Jamaat and Khelafat Majlish already visible, and an independent candidate entering the race, the Faridpur-4 seat is expected to see an intense contest.
