Veteran Congress leader A.K. Antony confidently stated that a change in government in Kerala is inevitable, with voters having already made their decision well before the upcoming polling day on April 9. Antony expressed certainty in the return of the United Democratic Front (UDF), likening it to a thunderous comeback that will oust the current administration, which he referred to as a mere “caretaker government.” Despite being a retired three-time Chief Minister, Antony remains active in state party affairs, emphasizing the UDF’s strong position.
Antony criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, accusing him of being detached from the public and avoiding interaction with ordinary citizens. He compared the State Secretariat to a fortress and labeled the Chief Minister as intolerant of criticism. Antony highlighted the UDF’s unity and argued that the mere possibility of a third consecutive Vijayan government would sway voters in favor of the UDF, without the need for an extensive campaign.
Emphasizing the shock among voters at the idea of a third term for the Left Democratic Front, Antony dismissed the potential support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that the electorate would reject another Vijayan government. He noted a shift in political dynamics, with dissent now extending beyond the Congress party and Left sympathizers moving away from the ruling camp. Antony also alleged a limited electoral space for the Bharatiya Janata Party in Kerala, suggesting indirect benefits to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and hinting at a covert understanding between the CPI(M) and the BJP, setting the stage for a heated political contest in the upcoming elections.
