With their main focus on the national election, archrivals Awami League and BNP will use the upcoming city corporation elections to gain ground. Sources in both the parties said they would employ their “full strength” in next month's Dhaka North City Corporation mayoral race to make a good start early in the election year.

By-polls to Dhaka North City Corporation that fell vacant after death of former mayor Annisul Huq will be held on February 26, the Election Commission has announced. Last date of nomination filing is January 18.