Samaragni as energy: UDF kickstarts its unofficial election campaign in Ernakulam 

KOCHI: UDF has started its election campaign in Ernakulam district with the fresh energy given by the Samaragni agitation led by KPCC President K Sudhakaran and Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan. Although not officially announced, the candidates have already started informal campaigning.

Sitting MPs Hibi Eden from Ernakulam, Benny Behanan from Chalakudy and Dean Kuriakose from Idukki are confirmed to contest. Francis George will also contest from the Kottayam seat given to the Kerala Congress. With the confirmation of candidates in all four Lok Sabha constituencies including Ernakulam district, preparations are underway for a strong campaign.

The Samaragni agitation left the district today after completing its two-day tour. A huge crowd arrived at all three reception centres. The senior Congress and UDF leaders of the district are of the opinion that the Yatra has been able to give new vigour, enthusiasm and energy to the grassroots level. DCC president Muhammed Shiyas said that the organizational structure is strong enough to promote campaigning at the grassroots level.

Hibi Eden is all set

Hibi Eden is expecting an easy victory in Ernakulam like in previous elections. Sources close to Hibi said that the community and political consensus is positive. Hibi is visiting community organization officials, religious leaders and prominent personalities to ensure support. The fact that the LDF is yet to find a popular independent candidate is also seen as a positive factor by Congress.

Political move in Chalakudy

Benny Behannan has also started an informal campaign in Chalakudy. Social and organizational officials and community leaders who supported last time are also being visited. Benny Behanan is also renewing his friendship with the Christian churches, including the influential Jacobites in the assembly constituencies of the district.

The UDF has also launched a political manoeuvre in Chalakudy based on indications that former Education Minister C Raveendranath, who has links to Ernakulam, will be the LDF candidate. UDF MLAs have stepped in to coordinate activities at the grassroots level.

Focus on Idukki and Kottayam

Special attention will also be paid to maintaining the victory of Muvattupuzha native Dean Kuriakos in the Idukki Constituency comprising of Kothamangalam and Muvattupuzha assembly constituencies. Congress sources said special attention would be given to garner more votes in Kothamangalam where LDF's Anthony John is MLA.

Francis George's campaign will be coordinated under the leadership of MLA Anoop Jacob in the Piravom assembly constituency in Kottayam. Kerala Congress is trying to secure maximum votes from here as it is a crucially influential constituency.