As the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) recently announced nominations for 34 of the 39 constituencies in the Rajshahi division, leaving five seats yet to be finalised, Bogra-2 has emerged as the most discussed among them.
Two heavyweight figures, Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna and Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdha, brother of July uprising martyr Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdha, are at the forefront of discussions. The key question dominating political circles is who will secure the BNP’s nomination for the upcoming national election.
BNP sources said a meeting with nomination aspirants from Bogra's seven seats was held at the BNP central office on 11 October, with Tarique Rahman joining virtually. During the discussions, the proposal of nominating Mahmudur Rahman Manna for the Bogra-2 seat was raised.
According to several senior party leaders, if the BNP forms an alliance for the next election, the Bogra-2 seat may be allocated to Nagorik Oikya, which could result in Manna contesting with BNP’s ticket. However, field-level BNP leaders expressed concerns that such an arrangement might weaken the party’s organisational strength in the constituency.
Meanwhile, Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdha has gained significant visibility after joining the BNP, actively participating in programmes across Bogra. Referring to his brother’s martyrdom in the July uprising, he voiced commitment to continue fighting for the country’s independence and sovereignty, and pledged lifelong service to the people of Shibganj.
Local BNP leaders have also mentioned Mir Shahe Alam, vice-president of the district BNP and president of the Shibganj Upazila BNP, as a strong contender for nomination. 
Meanwhile, Maulana Shahadutuzzaman of Jamaat-e-Islami, previously announced as a solo candidate, is moving ahead with an active grassroots campaign, promoting scales symbol through meetings and courtyard gatherings.