Discussions on KC(M)’s return to UDF gather momentum once again

Close on the heels of the Left Democratic Front’s stinging setback in the recent local body elections, speculation is ripe over the possibility of the Kerala Congress (M) returning to the United Democratic Front to strengthen the coalition ahead of the Assembly polls.

According to sources, the Congress has sent feelers to the KC(M), signalling that the party’s position within the LDF may be precarious, particularly after Central Travancore delivered a poor verdict for the Left in the local body polls.

A quick review of the Assembly constituencies in the region shows the LDF could maintain its lead in only three seats in Kottayam and one in Idukki. With Pala and Kanjirappally, long regarded as KC(M) strongholds, remaining the last pockets of the LDF in Kottayam, the UDF sees an opportunity to consolidate its gains by wooing the party led by Jose K Mani to its fold.

Within the UDF, however, opinions remain divided. The Indian Union Muslim League supports KC(M)’s inclusion, while the Kerala Congress led by P.J. Joseph has escalated its objection . “The KC(M) has lost its relevance. Our breakthrough in the local body elections does not depend on them. They have remained silent on LDF corruption issues, including the Sabarimala gold case,” remarked Mr. Joseph.

Inrestingly, Pala legislator Mani C. Kappen has softened his stance, even expressing no objection to handing over the Pala seat to the KC(M) if the UDF decides. Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan, in Kottayam on Monday, emphasised the coalition’s readiness but remained noncommittal on the KC(M): “The UDF will contest the Assembly polls with a strong base. We have neither pursued nor invited any party yet. Decisions will be taken at the right time,” he said.

KC(M) chairman Jose K. Mani has so far refused to alter alliances, stating that “winning and losing elections are part of politics. There is no question of changing alliances even after this defeat.” Yet, some within the party privately feel that remaining with the LDF may not be strategically advantageous in the upcoming elections.