KOCHI: UDF’s confidence in Ernakulam is like unbreakable faith. In the 17 elections so far, LDF has won only five times. K.V. Thomas, who has won five times from Ernakulam is likely to contest this time also.

Hibi Eeden’s name was in discussions before, but as the High Command had decided not to field sitting MLAs for Lok Sabha, all eyes are now to Kumbalangi. Thomas master loves his native place Kumbalangi, more than anything. His books are evidence for that-‘Ente Kumbalangi’, ‘Kumbalangi Kaleidoscope’ and ‘Kumbalangi Flash’.

Latin Catholics have a major influence in this region. Last time, LDF experimented with Christy Fernandes, Secretary to former President Pratibha Patil. That experiment was a failure. LDF’s find it rather tough to field a candidate that can pose a challenge for Thomas master. Party state secretary P. Rajeev’s name is in the discussions.

However, Rajeev’s preference is Chalakkudy. As sitting MP Innocent has made it clear that he is not going to contest for a second term, Rajeev can keep his hopes intact. Janatha Dal (S) wants Ernakulam instead of Kottayam. Seat sharing will be made official once CPM leaders return after the Polit Bureau meeting.

Last time, A.N. Radhakrishnan managed to secure around one lakh votes from Ernakulam as BJP candidate. While BJP wants Radhakrishnan to contest from Ernakulam and garner more votes in light of Sabarimala issue, he wants another constituency. Meanwhile, BDJS have asked for Ernakulam seat.

2014 Lok Sabha Polls

Prof. K.V. Thomas (Congress): 3,53,841

Christy Fernandes (LDF): 2,66,794

A.N. Radhakrishnan: 99,003