Thu Feb 26 15:06:54 UTC 2026: ### CPI(M) Wrestles with Seat Allocation Amid LDF Coalition Tensions in Kerala

The Story:

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] faces a delicate balancing act in Kerala as it navigates seat allocation for the upcoming Assembly polls. While likely to retain the Kuttiyadi and Perambra Assembly segments in Kozhikode district, the CPI(M) is under pressure from its Left Democratic Front (LDF) ally, the Kerala Congress (Mani) [KC(M)], which seeks to increase its representation and secure a greater number of winnable seats. Internal dissent within the CPI(M) during the 2021 polls, when Kuttiyadi was initially allotted to the KC(M), highlights the complexities of coalition politics in the state. The CPI(M) is approaching candidate selection with caution, prioritizing a third term for the Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government.

Key Points:

  • The CPI(M) is expected to retain the Kuttiyadi and Perambra Assembly segments in Kozhikode.
  • The KC(M) wants to increase its seat allocation to 13, having been promised that number in 2021 but receiving only 12 after ceding Kuttiyadi.
  • In 2021, CPI(M) activists protested the initial allocation of Kuttiyadi to KC(M), leading to the CPI(M) fielding its own candidate.
  • The KC(M) is considering requesting the Thiruvambady seat from the CPI(M) or a seat in the upland areas of Wayanad or Kannur.
  • LDF district convener Mukkom Mohammed believes the CPI(M) will retain Perambra and Kuttiyadi, but KC(M) might receive an additional seat from another part of Malabar.

Key Takeaways:

  • Coalition politics in Kerala requires careful negotiation and compromise between the CPI(M) and its allies.
  • Seat allocation is a crucial point of contention, with each party vying for winnable constituencies.
  • Internal dissent within the CPI(M) can impact coalition dynamics and seat distribution.
  • The upcoming elections are critical for the LDF, and the CPI(M) is prioritizing candidate selection to secure a third term.
  • The KC(M) is leveraging its community vote base to strengthen its position within the LDF.

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