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In the third phase, BNP leaders are running in Khulna, Rangpur, Mymensingh, Bhola, Sunamganj, Sylhet, Cumilla, Kurigram, Narsingdi, Tangail, Manikganj, Thakurgaon, Patuakhali, Sirajganj and Naogaon. There is still time for withdrawal from the race.

Tangail Sadar BNP President Asgor Ali, who is running for chairman in the third phase, told the Daily Star that he would not back down because he had reached an advanced age and wanted to seize the opportunity.

“As I have popularity in my area, I decided to participate in the election. Let the party do what it can. I am going to the doorsteps of the constituents and asking for vote,” he said.

In the third phase, relatives of 18 AL lawmakers are in the race, up from 15 in the second phase. Around 30 relatives of the AL lawmakers and ministers are participating in the first phase.

Ruling AL’s instructions for party MPs were largely unheeded as in the recent past the ruling party didn’t take any stern action against party leaders for violating party discipline which might encourage MPs to ignore the party decision, according to AL insiders.

The MP’s nepotism pushed the party’s dedicated grassroots leaders in a tough spot. Many AL leaders think MPs backing their loyal leaders and relatives might deepen the already existing rivalry within the party.

According to AL sources, ruling AL lawmakers are taking the election as an opportunity to tighten their grip on their areas by supporting the candidates loyal to them, while many MPs are putting their weights behind their close relatives, especially children, brothers and spouses.

AL Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim told the Daily Star that Sheikh Hasina wants unity in the party.

“Every leader should obey the party directives. Those who ignored the directive might face action,” he said.