Even with recent electoral trends favoring the opposition in Kerala, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) expressed confidence on Friday that the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) will secure a significant majority in the upcoming Assembly elections. State Secretary M.V. Govindan reaffirmed this stance while addressing the media in Thiruvananthapuram. The process of finalizing LDF candidates is almost complete, with the announcement of names expected shortly after the election schedule is released.
Despite past claims by the Left Front, particularly the CPI-M, of sweeping victories in elections post the 2021 Assembly polls, the political landscape has often shifted towards the Congress-led opposition. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the LDF managed to secure only one out of Kerala’s 20 seats. Subsequent by-elections predominantly favored the United Democratic Front (UDF), with the Left facing setbacks. Even in the recent local body elections in December, the UDF showcased a strong performance, contrary to Left’s expectations.
Governor Govindan, however, remains optimistic about the LDF’s prospects in the upcoming Assembly election, foreseeing a clear mandate. He also criticized the Central government’s foreign policy, alleging that India’s alignment with the US is eroding the nation’s sovereignty and self-reliance. Govindan highlighted a shift in India’s foreign policy towards the US, dating back to the tenure of former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. He emphasized that India’s traditional stance against American imperialism has transformed, leading to closer ties with the US, including diplomatic relations with Israel and compromises on self-reliance through agreements, positioning India as a subordinate ally of the US.
