The United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala has decided to initiate formal discussions on broadening its coalition ahead of the crucial state assembly elections. A pivotal meeting of the front's partners is scheduled for December 22 to deliberate on this strategic expansion.
Leadership Optimistic About New Entries
While no official talks with any specific party have commenced, the UDF leadership, particularly the Congress, is buoyant. They believe the recent local body election results will encourage more political groups to join their fold. Opposition leader V D Satheesan has confidently predicted "surprise entries" of several parties into the alliance, though he refrained from divulging specifics at this juncture.
Echoing this sentiment, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala affirmed that the UDF is poised for growth. He stated that a significant segment of the populace, which opposes Left rule and desires the flourishing of democracy and secularism, is gravitating towards the UDF. "That is our front expansion," Chennithala remarked.
Focus on People, Not Just Parties
Chennithala clarified the front's approach, emphasizing that the expansion is about attracting people rather than merely political entities. "We expect more people to come to the UDF from LDF, NDA and also from other parties. It's not about any political party; it's about the people. We need the support of those people," he elaborated.
However, he addressed the speculation surrounding the Kerala Congress (Mani), currently a constituent of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). Chennithala made it clear that KC(M) has not held any discussions with the UDF. He expressed uncertainty about future dialogues or the possibility of the party switching fronts, noting it would be inappropriate to comment on poaching a party from another coalition.
KC(M) Reaffirms Commitment to LDF
Meanwhile, KC(M) chairman Jose K Mani firmly dismissed rumors of his party facing a setback in central Kerala, including in its stronghold of Pala. Speaking after an LDF meeting on Tuesday, Mani asserted that the party continues to receive its core vote share and is in a stable position within the LDF. He contrasted this with the "precarious position" of the rival Joseph faction.
Mani categorically stated that there is no current political reason for KC(M) to leave the LDF, thereby ruling out an immediate shift. Despite this firm stance from its leadership, the UDF has kept its doors open for KC(M), especially in light of the party's perceived challenges in the local elections. While Congress and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leaders are reportedly open to welcoming KC(M), senior leader P J Joseph remains opposed to the idea, indicating internal deliberations within the UDF as well.
Road to Assembly Elections
The upcoming December 22 meeting marks the formal beginning of the UDF's consolidation efforts. The front aims to present a united and formidable opposition to the incumbent LDF government. The outcomes of these alliance talks will significantly shape the political landscape and electoral equations in Kerala as the state moves closer to the next assembly polls.
