The Indian National Congress unveiled its initial list of 55 candidates for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. The selection showcases a mix of experience, continuity, and new faces as the party aims to regain power in the state. Kerala is scheduled to hold elections on April 9.
Among the 55 candidates announced, 19 are current legislators, indicating a strategic reliance on existing incumbents amidst concerns of anti-incumbency. Notably, some sitting members, including senior leader K. Babu and expelled member Rahul Mamkootathil, have been excluded from the list. Speculation surrounds the absence of two-time MLA Eldhose Kunnappilly, who has reportedly been summoned to Delhi.
The Congress, leading the United Democratic Front (UDF), typically contests approximately 92 out of the 140 Assembly seats. Party officials hinted at the imminent release of a second candidate list. The delay in finalizing the initial list was attributed to internal discussions regarding the involvement of senior Lok Sabha members in the electoral process.
In a move to broaden its voter base, the Congress has nominated popular film actor and stage artiste Ramesh Pisharody from Palakkad constituency. The candidate roster also reflects the party’s strategy to leverage high-profile defections from the CPI(M), with former CPI(M) legislator Ayisha Potti and ex-Left sympathizer A. Suresh being fielded in key constituencies.
The list includes former MPs K. Muraleedharan and Ramya Haridas, with emerging leader Abdul Rasheed set to contest against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Dharmadom. With a blend of seasoned politicians, defectors, and fresh contenders, the Congress is gearing up for a significant electoral showdown in Kerala.
