Congress leader EM Augusthy with Ramesh Chennithala. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Idukki
Three-time MLA and senior Congress leader from Idukki, EM Augusthy has retracted his earlier decision to quit politics after his defeat in the recent local body elections.
Mr. Augusthy said here on Wednesday that after he announced his retirement, several Congress leaders – notably former minister Ramesh Chennithala – urged him to reconsider his decision. “I have decided to take Mr. Chennithal’s advice and will be more active in politics again,” he said.
Announcing the change, Mr Augusthy shared a photo with Mr Chennithala on social media and said he would continue to work under the senior leader.
“My primary objective is to ensure the victory of the United Democratic Front in all the five seats in Idukki. I am not currently thinking of contesting the assembly elections,” he said. Reflecting on his recent defeat, Mr Augusthy said running for the local body was a mistake. “It was a decision that could have been avoided,” he said.
Mr. Augusthy announced his retirement from politics immediately after losing the election in ward 21 (Erupathekkar) of Kattappana municipality.
Mr. Augusthy represented Udumbanchola in the assembly from 1991 to 1996 and Peerumade from 2001. In the 2021 assembly polls, Mr. Augusthy attracted attention after losing the Udumbanchola seat to CPI(M) leader MM Mani.
Published – 04 Feb 2026 21:08 IST
