Congress Announces First List of 55 Candidates for Kerala Assembly Elections 2026
The Congress party has officially released its initial list of 55 candidates for the upcoming Kerala Assembly polls scheduled for 2026. This significant announcement was made following a crucial meeting of the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) in New Delhi.
Key Candidates and Strategic Selections
Prominent leaders featured in the list include V D Satheesan, who will contest from Peravur, and Ramesh Chennithala, set to run from Haripad. The party has emphasized winnability as the primary criterion for candidate selection, as stated by Congress general secretary K C Venugopal. Most sitting MLAs have been retained, with senior leaders fielded in key constituencies to strengthen the party's position.
Notable Contests and Factional Dynamics
Several high-profile contests have been outlined, such as Sunny Joseph challenging former health minister K K Shailaja in Peravoor. Other notable candidates include Remya Haridas from Chirayankeezhu, K Muraleedharan from Vattiyoorkavu, and Padmaja Venugopal from Thrissur. The party has avoided faction-ridden seats to minimize internal disputes, though some constituencies remain undecided due to ongoing disagreements.
Election Context and Historical Background
In the 2021 Kerala Assembly elections, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) made history by retaining power, with the CPI(M) winning 62 seats. The Congress, as the principal party in the United Democratic Front (UDF), secured 21 seats. The upcoming polls are critical for the UDF, which faces internal turmoil and a tough battle to regain power in a state known for alternating governments.
Undecided Seats and Future Announcements
Several constituencies, particularly in Thiruvananthapuram district like Nemom and Kazhakoottam, are yet to have finalized candidates. Delays are attributed to factional disputes and a directive from the party high command regarding MPs not contesting assembly elections. The elections will be held in a single phase on April 9, with vote counting scheduled for May 4.
