Only two days left to submit nomination papers; parties worried over internal rifts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With only today and Monday remaining to submit nomination papers, all three major political fronts have entered the final phase of election preparations. Parties are anxious about the possible internal shifts and unexpected developments that could influence the outcome.

Despite facing a headache over the K Sudhakaran issue, the UDF is relieved that it has been able to announce all its candidates. On the other hand, the CPM, which initially gained an advantage by announcing candidates early, has not yet completed the candidate selection for the LDF. In the NDA, delays are mainly related to candidates from Twenty20.

At the same time, parties are worried as they have less than 12 working days left for election campaigning. There are concerns about internal conflicts, possible defections to rival fronts, and the risk of vote splitting.

The UDF had expected to strengthen its fight by fielding rebels from the CPM. However, there are concerns that this strategy may backfire in some cases. One example is the support given to P K Sasi in Ottapalam. Party workers believe it may not be easy to justify supporting a leader whom the UDF had earlier strongly criticised.

Calm after the storm in Congress
After three days of political tension over the Sudhakaran issue, the Congress has managed to restore some calm. However, minor issues still persist in different regions. In Alappuzha, a section within the UDF is unhappy with the decision to support G Sudhakaran, a former CPM leader, in Ambalappuzha.

In Payyannur, UDF-backed candidate V Kunhikrishnan has shown reluctance to participate in campaign activities. In Taliparamba, there are reports that the Youth Congress district president may contest as a rebel against T K Govindan. Efforts to reconcile with Eldhose Kunnappilly in Perumbavoor have also not been successful.

LDF faces internal concerns
The LDF is also facing concerns in several constituencies. In Taliparamba, where P K Shyamala, wife of the CPM state secretary, is contesting, the presence of a former party leader as an opponent is seen as a potential challenge. Additionally, V Kunhikrishnan, who has accused a CPM MLA of financial irregularities in a martyr’s fund, is contesting with UDF support. The presence of such former associates in rival camps is causing unease within the LDF.

In Ottapalam, questions are being raised about why P K Sasi was given a key position in the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) after disciplinary action was taken against him earlier.

Dissatisfaction within NDA over candidate selection

The NDA is facing internal dissatisfaction due to what critics describe as the BJP’s “open-door” approach in accepting leaders from other parties. Many party workers are unhappy that long-time members are being sidelined in favour of newcomers. The inclusion of candidates from Twenty20 has also created challenges. In some constituencies, candidates have withdrawn after being declared, leading to embarrassment for the leadership.