Kochi is set to witness a change in leadership at the corporation as deputy mayor Deepak Joy, who has been elected as the MLA from the Tripunithura assembly constituency, will tender his resignation on Wednesday. This development has opened up the race for the deputy mayor's post, with several contenders emerging from the Congress party.
Top Contenders for Deputy Mayor Post
According to sources within the Congress, the chances are high for councillor Sudheer V R, representing the Elamakkara South ward, to be elected as the new deputy mayor. However, there are other strong contenders, including Henry Austin (councillor from Vaduthala and an 'A' group leader), P D Martin, and KVP Krishna Kumar. The decision will likely consider various factors, including religion and group equations within the party.
As per earlier arrangements, Joy and Kumar were supposed to share the deputy mayor's post for two-and-a-half years each. This has led to speculation that Kumar might be elected as deputy mayor and continue in the role for the remainder of the tenure. A Congress source confirmed, "Considering various issues, including religion and group equations in Congress, Sudheer is one of the top contenders. Austin also stands a good chance."
Election Process and Timeline
Even after Joy's resignation, it will take some time to complete the procedures for conducting the election to the post. The election process involves notifications and party discussions before a new deputy mayor is elected.
LDF's Position
Meanwhile, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) has not yet started discussions on its candidate for the deputy mayor's post. A party leader stated that the LDF will only decide on a candidate after the election notification is issued. During the previous deputy mayor election held after the new council assumed office, the LDF had fielded V J Yesudas, councillor from the Nazareth division, to contest against Joy.
This transition marks a significant political shift in the Kochi corporation, with the Congress party expected to finalize its candidate soon, while the LDF waits for the official election process to begin.
