Sun Nov 16 15:13:57 UTC 2025: Summary:

The United Democratic Front (UDF), led by the Congress party, announced 37 candidates for the upcoming Thrikkakara municipality elections. The list includes DCC secretaries, a block president, and a CPI(M) rebel. They are contesting 39 wards. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key ally, will contest nine seats. A CPI(M) member who was recently expelled for criticizing the party’s candidate selection has joined the Congress ticket. The LDF and BJP have also announced candidates for most wards. Final candidate selections for a few parties and wards are still in progress.

News Article:

Congress Announces UDF Candidates, CPI(M) Rebel Joins Fray in Thrikkakara Municipality Elections

KOCHI, INDIA – November 16, 2025 – The Congress party, leading the United Democratic Front (UDF), unveiled its slate of 37 candidates for the Thrikkakara municipality elections on Sunday, November 16th. Uma Thomas, MLA, announced the candidates, who include prominent figures such as District Congress Committee (DCC) secretaries Wahida Shereef and Xavier Thayankeri, along with former municipal chairperson Shaji Vazhakkala.

The UDF is striving to maintain its hold on the municipality after completing its previous term amidst political challenges. Notably, Sarath Kumar M.S., a former member recently expelled from the CPI(M), has joined the Congress ticket. Kumar claims his expulsion stemmed from his opposition to the CPI(M)’s candidate choice in a ward where the BJP is gaining traction.

The Congress is contesting 39 wards. Nine seats have been allocated to its key ally, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). The CPI(M) has already announced their candidates in 43 wards. The BJP has declared candidates in 34 wards with ally Bharath Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS) will be fielding candidates in the remaining five wards. A few party tickets in a number of wards have yet to be finalized. The Thrikkakara municipal elections are expected to be tightly contested, with the UDF, LDF, and BJP vying for control.

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