In a surprising turn of events in Kerala’s political landscape, rebel leaders from the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) have emerged as strong contenders, causing a setback to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the party. T. K. Govindan, V. Kunjikrishnan, and former minister G. Sudhakaran, who parted ways with the CPI-M, are leading in their constituencies with support from the United Democratic Front (UDF) led by Congress.
One of the key battles is unfolding in Taliparamba, where Govindan is challenging P. K. Shymala, wife of state Secretary M. V. Govindan, in a traditionally Left-leaning stronghold. The current trend indicates a significant shift in favor of the rebels, marking a symbolic blow to the party leadership. Kunjikrishnan, a grassroots leader from Kannur, expelled earlier for raising fund collection allegations, is posing a serious challenge to sitting MLA T.I. Madhusoodhan.
Meanwhile, Sudhakaran, a former cabinet member under Vijayan, is leading against H. Salam after their fallout with the party leadership. However, not all rebel candidates are faring well, as seen in the case of former legislator P. K. Sasi trailing in Ottapalam despite UDF’s backing. The electoral contest between Ayisha Potti and State Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal at the Kottarakara Assembly seat remains undecided, reflecting the deeper divisions within the CPI-M.
