CPM eyes only victory; prominent leaders and sitting MLAs to contest

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The CPM, which is gearing up for the upcoming Assembly elections with the clear aim of retaining power, is likely to field several prominent leaders along with a majority of its sitting MLAs. The party is reportedly set to relax its norm that requires leaders who have served two consecutive terms to step aside. According to reports, nearly 50 of the current 62 CPM MLAs may be given tickets to contest again. A state committee meeting is expected to be convened soon to finalise candidate selection and other election-related matters.

In Thiruvananthapuram district, nine of the party’s ten sitting MLAs are likely to contest the elections. The only uncertainty remains over V Joy, MLA from Varkala and the party’s district secretary. Reports also claim that CPM is planning to take over the Thiruvananthapuram and Kovalam constituencies. It is indicated that 13 out of the 17 members of the party’s state secretariat may seek a fresh mandate. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and other senior leaders are expected to be on the list.

Former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac, who stepped aside in the previous election due to the two-term norm, may return to the electoral fray. Senior leaders, including KK Shailaja, KN Balagopal, P Rajeev, VN Vasavan, Saji Cherian, and PA Mohammed Riyas, are also likely to contest. Additionally, M Swaraj, PK Biju, and MV Jayarajan are said to be under consideration.

However, a few senior leaders may stay out of the contest due to organisational responsibilities and other considerations. Party State Secretary MV Govindan is unlikely to contest due to his current role. EP Jayarajan, Puthalath Dinesan, and CN Mohanan are also reportedly not expected to figure in the candidate list.