Mon Nov 24 18:40:53 UTC 2025: Summary:

The United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kochi Corporation is facing a significant challenge from a large number of rebel candidates in the upcoming elections. Congress rebels are present in at least 10 divisions, while a prominent BJP councillor is running as an independent. Efforts are underway to persuade the rebels to withdraw from campaigning. The Congress party had difficulty finalizing candidates, leading to dissent. Similar issues plague the Congress in the Thrikkakara municipality, while the CPI(M) and CPI each face one rebel candidate.

News Article:

UDF Grapples with Rebel Candidates as Kochi Elections Loom

KOCHI, November 25, 2025 – The United Democratic Front (UDF) is facing an uphill battle in the upcoming Kochi Corporation elections, contending with a surge of rebel candidates across multiple divisions. Following Monday’s nomination withdrawal deadline, it’s clear the internal strife within the Congress party and other factions could significantly impact the election outcome.

At least 10 divisions within the Corporation are seeing Congress rebels vying for votes, including key areas like Palarivattom and Mattancherry. In a particularly notable case, six-time councillor Shyamala S. Prabhu, a prominent figure within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is contesting as an independent in Cheralayi, rebelling against the local BJP leadership.

The District Congress Committee (DCC) president Muhammed Shiyas acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating that attempts are being made to dissuade the rebel candidates from actively campaigning.

The issue extends to the Thrikkakara municipality, where the Congress faces another six rebel candidates. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] and the CPI also have their own challenges. The presence of these independent contenders threatens to split the vote and potentially disrupt the established political order.

The coming weeks will be crucial as the UDF works to manage the internal damage and maintain its standing in the Kochi Corporation. The election promises to be a closely watched contest with potential for surprising results.

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