After Nilambur win, talks heat up over Kerala Congress (M)‘s return to UDF

Amidst reports that the United Democratic Front (UDF) working on a strategy to expand its base ahead of next year’s Assembly elections, discussions over a potential return of Kerala Congress (M) to the Congress-led coalition are once again gaining momentum in Central Travancore.

Buoyed by the Nilambur bypoll victory, Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan has officially confirmed the UDF’s expansion plans. The Congress leaders in Central Travancore, on their part, have also expressed interest in bringing back the regional party, which is currently part of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF).

“Some leaders have shown willingness to negotiate, but only in a personal capacity. Any formal discussions with Kerala Congress (M), however, will depend on the outcome of the upcoming local body elections,” said a senior party leader.

According to him, the Congress is keen to rebuild a stronger version of the Kerala Congress, its long-time ally, which currently finds itself fragmented across political alliances. “Only a united Kerala Congress can help absorb the eventual exit of some of its senior leaders,” he added, pointing to reports that veteran leader P.J. Joseph may not contest future elections.

Combined with the elevation of Sunny Joseph as the KPCC president, the Congress regards a stronger Kerala Congress presence within the UDF as a means to bolster its ties with the Catholic Church, which remains an influential force in Central Travancore.

“But for any of this to materialise, Kerala Congress (M) must first respond positively to the feelers we’ve sent from time to time,” the leader added.

When contacted, a senior Kerala Congress (M) leader admitted to a sense of confusion within party ranks about a potential shift. He, however, insisted that no formal discussions have taken place.

“People often ask us about such a move whenever speculation begins to circulate. We see this as a strategy by the UDF to create uncertainty among our workers. Nothing concrete has happened, especially since our party chairman currently occupies the Rajya Sabha seat vacated by the CPI(M),” he said.