In a significant step for local governance, the newly elected representatives of the Kochi corporation and its surrounding municipalities officially assumed their roles on Sunday. Swearing-in ceremonies were conducted across the city, marking the formal beginning of the new term for these local bodies. The events also set the stage for crucial discussions within political fronts to select chairpersons for the respective councils.
Kochi Corporation Sees All 75 Councillors Take Oath
The central ceremony for the Kochi Corporation was held at its new office. District Collector Priyanka G, who also served as the election officer, administered the oath of office. The honor of being sworn in first went to Nirmala Teacher, the representative from Gandhinagar division and the council's most senior member. Following her own oath, Nirmala Teacher then proceeded to administer the oath to the other elected division representatives in the presence of the Collector. All 75 members elected from the various wards successfully took their oaths and assumed office.
Attention now swiftly turns to the election for the city's top post. The mayoral election is scheduled for 10:30 am on Friday. However, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over the final selection. While KPCC general secretary Deepti Mary Varghese is considered a likely candidate for mayor, councillors V K Minimol and Shiny Mathew are also strong contenders vying for the position.
Municipalities Hold Ceremonies, Chairperson Decisions Pending
Parallel oath-taking events unfolded in the municipalities under the Kochi corporation's umbrella, each navigating its own political dynamics.
In Kalamassery municipality, the ceremony took place in a special pandal beside the municipal premises. The United Democratic Front (UDF) has already reached a decision, choosing veteran Congress leader and former chairperson Jamal Manakkadan to lead the council once again. Manakkadan stated that the new council's primary focus would be to fulfill the promises outlined in the UDF manifesto and to complete the developmental projects initiated by the previous council. He also highlighted that three independent candidates have pledged support to the UDF, which will enable the municipality to have chairpersons in all its standing committees.
At the Thrikkakara municipality swearing-in, all 48 winning candidates were in attendance. This included Sheena Shukkoor, who has been selected as the municipality's vice-chairperson. Although the UDF has not yet finalized its choice for the chairperson's role, sources indicate that Congress councillors Rashid Ullampillil and Shaji Vazhakkala are prominent names under consideration.
Maradu and Tripunithura Await Key Decisions
The Maradu municipality is set to officially declare its chairperson on Monday. Sources suggest that Ajitha Nandakumar is the frontrunner for the post, though councillor Sunila Sibi is also a contender for the top position.
In Tripunithura municipality, the swearing-in ceremony has concluded, but the BJP-led council has not yet decided on its chairperson. BJP leader KVS Haridas clarified that the decision rests with the party's state leadership, and an announcement is expected before Wednesday. He confidently asserted, "We will be having our own chairperson, there is no doubt about it."
The completion of the oath-taking ceremonies across Kochi's local bodies sets the foundation for the next five years of civic administration. With key leadership positions yet to be filled, the coming days will be crucial in determining the political direction and administrative priorities for the corporation and its municipalities.
