On a massive anti-incumbency wave, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) returned to power in Kerala on May 4, ending 10 years of being in the political wilderness. After an unprecedented defeat in 2021, the alliance systematically worked on a comeback, winning four bye-elections, the 2024 general elections and the civic body polls last year before storming back into the State Assembly through deft election campaigning and a collective effort that sought to capitalize on the government’s growing opposition to the functioning of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) CPI(LDF) The BJP-led CPIM reopened its account, secured three seats, finished second out of six and won substantial vote share in pockets of north, central and south Kerala, redrawing the electoral landscape. Despite its low vote share, the party is undoubtedly growing, albeit gradually. In fairness to the left, which has suffered a debilitating blow, the outgoing government has embarked on a path of growth, plugging infrastructure gaps, soliciting private investment and promoting sustainable industry without abandoning its leftist push for welfare and public administration, despite facing fiscal embargoes and pocket vetoes from hostile governors. While supporters of the Left agreed with its political economy, many could not digest the lack of accountability and domineering, if not dismissive, behavior of the CPI(M) top leadership. The Left attempted to woo what was seen as an emerging Hindu constituency through events such as the Global Ayyappa Devotees’ Meet, although it selectively targeted the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) as it was believed to be aligned with the forces of political Islam. The IUML used everything in its armor to inflict a crushing defeat on the Left not only in Malappuram, its stronghold, but also in other parts of the state. A rebellion broke out in the ranks of the Left ahead of the elections over issues of nepotism and the concentration of power in one person who had the cult status that the UDF was exploiting. This led to the fall of several decades-old leftist citadels with a cascading effect elsewhere.
Back in the saddle, the immediate task for the Congress and the UDF will be to stay true to their slogan of being a team and complete a cabinet with a popular and effective leader. A historic mandate of 102 seats, including the independents he supported, should inspire the alliance to form a government that is approachable, competent and grounded. The period between polling and counting saw Congress leaders drawing public ridicule for brazen displays of lust for the chief ministerial post, much to the dismay of the party high command and allies. Democracy would be better served if Congress acted responsibly and leaders put aside personal ambitions for the greater good.
Published – May 7, 2026 0:10 AM IST
