Kerala Elections 2026 | Congress Confident of Gains in Left Strongholds: "Will Win Over 100 Seats" Kerala Congress President Sunny Joseph has expressed confidence in the United Democratic Front's (UDF) performance in the upcoming assembly elections, predicting the alliance will secure more than 100 seats. Speaking to NDTV, Joseph highlighted the potential for a strong showing in Left-leaning constituencies, particularly in the Left stronghold of Kannur. He pointed to recent trends in local body and parliamentary elections as indicators of growing public discontent with the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. Joseph emphasized that issues such as governance and development have fueled dissatisfaction, which could influence the election outcome. He also underscored the Congress party's secular appeal, which he argued transcends community divisions. Joseph noted that the leadership of the next government will be determined by the party's high command following the results. Despite this, the UDF remains focused on expanding its influence in traditional Left strongholds across northern Kerala. The UDF's strategy includes targeting areas where the Left has historically held sway, aiming to capitalize on perceived weaknesses in the LDF's governance. Joseph's comments reflect broader optimism within the UDF about its prospects, though the final results will depend on voter behavior and the effectiveness of campaign messaging. The election is expected to be a pivotal moment for Kerala's political landscape, with the UDF and LDF vying for dominance. The outcome could reshape the state's governance and policy priorities, particularly in sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.#united_democratic_front #kannur #left_democratic_front #kerala_elections_2026 #sunny_joseph
Kerala veteran CPI(M) leader G. Sudhakaran to contest as Independent candidate from Ambalappuzha in Assembly polls G. Sudhakaran, a long-serving member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and former minister, announced on March 12, 2026, that he would run as an independent candidate from the Ambalappuzha constituency in the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. This marks a significant departure from his 63-year association with the party, which he has served since its inception. During a press conference, Sudhakaran emphasized that his decision does not reflect a rejection of the party’s principles, stating he remains committed to its ideals and has no intention of joining any other political party or alliance. Sudhakaran clarified that he would not engage in criticism of the Communist Party or its members, nor would he participate in campaigns involving wall graffiti. He also reiterated his stance against the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, asserting that he would not speak ill of the ruling administration. The veteran leader attributed his decision to feel “insulted” by online attacks and the use of AI-generated content to undermine his reputation. He criticized those who dismiss his contributions, calling their behavior un-Marxian and highlighting the dedication of historical communist leaders like Lenin, Stalin, Mao, and Castro, who remained in their positions until their deaths. The decision to contest independently also stems from Sudhakaran’s refusal to apply for membership scrutiny, an annual process within the CPI(M). He claimed the party’s state and district leadership had “spurned and ridiculed” him, leading to his withdrawal from the process. He vowed to “hit back with full force, but with civility,” against any attempts to discredit him.#g_sudhakaran #ambalappuzha #communist_party_of_india_marxist #left_democratic_front #citu
