Mon Dec 29 15:07:28 UTC 2025: News Article:

UDF Retains Control of Vengola Panchayat in Kerala

KOCHI – December 29, 2025 – The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has successfully retained power in the Vengola grama panchayat in Kerala, following elections held today. Shamitha Shereef of Pathippalam ward was elected president, while V.H. Muhammed of Kandanthara ward secured the vice-president position.

Both UDF candidates defeated their Left Democratic Front (LDF) opponents, Elsy Eldhose and Jaseela Noushad, by a vote of 9 to 8. Notably, the Twenty20 party, with six members, and the Social Democratic Party of India, with one member, abstained from voting.

The election was initially scheduled for Saturday, December 27, but was postponed due to a lack of quorum, as both the LDF and Twenty20 parties stayed away, preventing the required 14 members from being present.

Across Ernakulam district’s 82 grama panchayats, the UDF has claimed power in a commanding 71, including Kalloorkad where they supported an Independent candidate. The LDF holds sway in only seven panchayats, while Twenty20 has gained control of four, including Poothrukka where they secured the presidency through a draw of lots.

Summary:

The UDF has retained control of the Vengola grama panchayat, securing both the president and vice-president positions in a vote against the LDF. This outcome occurred after an initial delay due to a lack of quorum on Saturday. Across the district, the UDF dominates local governance while the LDF trails behind.

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