THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: I am confident that UDF will win in Kuttanad, says its candidate Jacob Abraham. The political situation is conducive for UDF. The people of Kuttanad want a person from their own land to represent them. This feeling is intense among the people and it can be found across party lines. “In the last forty years of my political life, I have been consecutively elected three times to district panchayat, I think this experience would help me to gain acceptance among the people,” he said to flash.

Constant neglect, an important issue

The main issue to be discussed during the poll campaign should be the neglect faced by Kuttanad for the past 4 years. Govt should clarify where is the Kuttanad package? Even though many offers were given to Kuttanad in the budgets, none of them was realised so far. Farmers were not given compensation for the losses they suffered during the two recurrent floods in 2018 and 2019. Govt has build homes for the undeserving in Kuttanad. Anti-incumbency sentiments are brewing up in Kuttanad due to all these factors. UDF will converse these issues and others with the people. The communal equations and the general political feelings in the constituency will benefit UDF.

Lack of consensus, most unfortunate

The division happened in Kerala Congress is an unfortunate incident. We wanted everyone to go together in a united manner but the reality is that the party has undergone a split. “Even though there exist different opinions in Kuttanad I think personal relations will benefit me. Although, Jose and Joseph’s factions are functioning in two different parties there are no personal issues between us. We meet every day. Therefore split in Kerala Congress will not affect me.” he said.

Congress won’t backstab

It is not a sin for politicians to wish to contest in a seat during polls. Congressmen batted for Kuttanad seat in order to fulfil that desire. Even many workers in our party wish to become MLAs but if UDF takes a decision everybody should abide by it. When I was declared as the candidate, DCC chief sent two-block presidents to campaign for me. DCC president Liju said that not only Kerala Congress but Congress also want to seize Kuttanad seat from LDF. Now everybody wants to work for UDF’s victory.

Bypolls will happen

"We are working under the expectation that by-polls will happen. Cancellation of polls should be taken up by the party leadership. Being a candidate, I cannot make an opinion about such issues. The party thought that polls won’t happen due to Covid-19," said Jacob.