Ramesh Pisharody in Palakkad, VD Satheesan in Paravur: No MPs, more stars; Congress releases first list of candidates

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The All India Congress Committee (AICC) has reportedly narrowed down its choices for key constituencies in Kerala. Following intense deliberations at the Aluva Palace and subsequent screenings in New Delhi, the party is pivoting toward "winnability" and star power to counter the ruling LDF.

The list emphasizes stability and experience, featuring 19 sitting MLAs and five former legislators. Notably, the party has opted for a "no MP" policy for this round, focusing instead on grassroots leaders and four fresh faces. Key names include Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan from Paravur and Chandy Oommen from Puthuppally. This early announcement aims to provide nominees a head start in their respective constituencies ahead of the April 9 polling date.

Ramesh Pisharody in Palakkad: The actor-comedian is the "surprise" pick to replace Rahul Mamkootathil. Backed by Shafi Parambil, he is seen as a popular face to hold a tough seat against BJP’s Shobha Surendran.

K. Muraleedharan in Vattiyoorkavu: After a hiatus from the segment, the veteran leader returns to his "home turf" in the capital to reclaim the seat from the CPM.

Chandy Oommen in Puthuppally: The sitting MLA and son of late CM Oommen Chandy will defend the family bastion, maintaining the party’s emotional connection to the region.

Sunny Joseph in Kannur: The current KPCC President and Sunny Joseph are slated to lead the charge in the northern stronghold, despite internal debates regarding K. Sudhakaran’s role.

T.N. Prathapan in Manalur: Former MP T.N. Prathapan makes a return to state politics, signalling the party’s strategy to field heavyweights in local assembly contests.

Strategic shifts & challenges

• The "Celebrity" Factor: By fielding Ramesh Pisharody in Palakkad, Congress is attempting to replicate its success with popular figures, though this has sparked minor "outsider" debates within the local district committee.
• Sitting MLAs Retained: Most sitting MLAs, including V.D. Satheesan (Paravur) and Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan (Kottayam), are confirmed to run again.
• Seat Swapping: There are ongoing discussions with the IUML regarding swapping seats in segments like Pattambi and Kalamassery to maximise the UDF's collective reach.