UDF resurgent, LDF despondent as Exit Polls roll in

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Although the claim of a hundred-seat sweep is not evident in the exit polls, the UDF camp is in high spirits as all surveys have unanimously predicted a majority for them. The projections suggest a maximum of up to 90 seats. The fact that not a single survey has predicted a majority for the LDF has come as a "double delight" for the UDF. Most surveys grant the BJP between one to three seats, while a few have shown the "generosity" of awarding them up to seven.

In the 2021 elections, even when the LDF secured a massive majority, some exit poll agencies had predicted an edge for the UDF. However, this time around, every survey has dismissed the LDF's chances. If these predictions turn into reality three days from now, the UDF can boast that their "Team UDF" claim was not just empty talk. It would leave the LDF in a pathetic state of self-pity, having failed to meet expectations despite being granted a consecutive term by the people. It would also be an admission that the calculations of Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan—who maintained that the opposition was more united than ever—were spot on. The Left had only one "star campaigner": Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. If the exit poll predictions hold true, the brunt of the damage will fall primarily on the Chief Minister.

Anti-incumbency was the trump card the Opposition played from the very beginning of the campaign. It appears that the LDF’s strategy to overcome this narrative through welfare pensions and developmental achievements has backfired. Furthermore, it must be assumed that the last-minute flurry of announced benefits and concessions failed to yield results. If leaders like G. Sudhakaran, who have bid farewell to the party, manage to create a significant impact, it will deal a double blow to the LDF.