The election for Kannur Corporation's 56 wards is closely fought among the Left Democratic Front (LDF), United Democratic Front (UDF), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The UDF, which has long controlled the Corporation, faces tough challenges from rebel candidates within its ranks. Congress contests 38 wards and IUML the rest in the UDF. The LDF fields CPI(M) in 43 wards, CPI in six, and smaller parties in others. BJP contests all 56 wards, focusing on women candidates even in general seats. Internal dissent troubles UDF with rebel candidates battling official nominees in key wards. Deputy Mayor P. Indira (Congress) and IUML district vice-president K.P. Tahir face rebel challenges. In Payyambalam, Congress rebel K.N. Bindu defies party decisions. Varam sees IUML rebel K.V. Rayees opposing the official. In Adikadalayi, KPCC member Rijil Makkutty runs as UDF candidate, but party rebel C. Muhammed Ali also contests, risking vote division. IUML suspended four members for backing rebels. Adding to UDF troubles, the Aikya Janadhipathya Samrakshana Samithi, led by former Congress leader P.K. Ragesh, fields 12 candidates. LDF gained early advantage when CPI(M) rebel A.M. Prakashan withdrew nomination in Talikkavu, clearing the way for official candidate O.K. Vineesh. CPI(M) promotes a team of new faces aiming to boost development. District secretary K.K. Ragesh accused UDF of corruption and failed projects. Former Mayor T.O. Mohanan rejected these claims, praising UDF's development despite funding issues and said UDF is running 30 fresh, grassroots candidates aiming to win over 40 seats. BJP district president K.K. Vinod Kumar blamed the Corporation for poor local projects and promised development plans including better roads, a flyover, solutions for stray dogs, and enhanced kidney dialysis. He said only BJP can ensure steady growth with Central help.