Kannur's local body elections have turned into a tense fight. The Left Democratic Front (LDF), United Democratic Front (UDF), and National Democratic Alliance (NDA) are all trying to keep their strongholds while eyeing new chances. Rebel candidates, supported by unhappy party workers, are upsetting plans and forcing last-minute shifts. The LDF still controls 57 of 71 grama panchayats, 10 of 11 blocks panchayats, six of nine municipalities, and the district panchayat. But uncontested CPI(M) wins have dropped from 18 to 14. The ruling LDF is campaigning on development work by the Pinarayi Vijayan government and aims to capture the Kannur city Corporation, the only corporation held by the UDF in Kerala. Promises include upgrading roads, a new bus terminal, flyovers, and turning Kannur into a high-tech urban centre. The LDF plans to attack UDF’s credibility on the Rahul Mamkootathil issue. Meanwhile, the UDF's main challenge is to hold Kannur Corporation and gain seats in panchayats. The UDF is weaker after Kerala Congress(M) left it. Leaders hope issues like human-animal conflicts and delayed government action will help. The UDF highlights political violence and the ADM Naveen Babu suicide case as campaign points. Both UDF and NDA criticize the ruling front over the Sabarimala gold theft case. The BJP is contesting about 350 seats without any current local body control and aims to increase votes by pushing Union government achievements. Rebel candidates are the biggest disruptors. They challenge both LDF and UDF, especially when results could be decided by small vote margins. Rebels are active in Kannur Corporation, Payyannur municipality, and places like Panoor and New Mahe. In some areas, even close relatives of candidates are rebels, embarrassing parties. The rebel factor may give unexpected chances, especially to LDF in Kannur Corporation. In rural areas, rebels could hurt UDF and help the NDA or LDF. With tight races, every vote lost to rebels could be crucial.