(BSS) - Electioneering for the upcoming national election formally began on Thursday as 38 candidates across six parliamentary constituencies in Khulna district launched door-to-door campaigns, seeking support from voters in villages, markets, ferry terminals and neighbourhoods.

In Khulna-1 constituency (Dacope-Batiaghata), BNP nominee Amir Ejaz Khan has entered the race for the fourth time. After missing out in the party’s first nomination list, he was named in the second phase and has since intensified his grassroots campaign, personally appealing to voters for their support.

Local resident Shymol Roy of Gangarampur Union in Batiaghata upazila said he would vote for Amir Ejaz Khan, while nanda Rani of Vanderkot village also expressed her intention to cast her vote first time as she could not cast in last three elections.

Meanwhile, both BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP and other Islamic party activists were seen campaigning for their party candidate alongside promoting votes in favour of ‘Yes’ in the referendum.

In Khulna-2 constituency (Sadar-Sonadanga), BNP-nominated candidate Nazrul Islam Manju formally inaugurated his campaign at 11 am by distributing leaflets at Ferryghat Mor in the city. Seeking votes, he pledged to work collectively for Khulna’s development.

Speaking to supporters, Manju said voters were deprived of exercising their franchise freely during previous authoritarian rule but expressed optimism that the upcoming election would allow people to vote peacefully and impartially. Khulna Metropolitan BNP President Shafiqul Alam Mona, General Secretary SM Shafiqul Alam Tuhin and other party leaders were present.

In Khulna-5 constituency (Dumuria-Phultala), Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General and former MP Mia Golam Parwar began his campaign from Dhamalia Union in Dumuria upazila.

Addressing a roadside meeting and courtyard gatherings, he promised to establish a corruption-free society, social justice, an equitable state system, political stability and a business-friendly environment.

BNP candidate Azizul Bari Helal in Khulna-4 constituency (Rupsha-Terokhada-Dighalia) started his campaign from Sener Bazar under Aichgati Union of Rupsha upazila.

Later, he visited Bhujonia village in Barasat Union of Terokhada upazila, where he joined a religious programme and interacted with local residents.

In Khulna-3 constituency (Khalishpur-Daulatpur-Aranghata-Khan Jahan Ali part), BNP candidate and central student affairs secretary Rakibul Islam Bakul launched his campaign at noon from in front of Khalishpur Newsprint Gate.

He sought votes pledging efforts to reopen mills and factories and restore Khulna’s past industrial glory.

Besides, candidates from various political parties and independents were also seen campaigning in different areas, making development promises as the election race gains momentum.