LDF tightens three-decade grip on Nedumangad municipality

The Left Democratic Front (LDF) achieved a massive victory in Nedumangad municipality by winning 29 out of 42 wards. The result consolidated the CPI(M)-led coalition’s grip on the local body for three decades.

While UDF secured victory in 10 wards, BJP managed to win only three.

Senior CPI(M) leaders contesting the elections recorded significant victories. CPI(M) district committee member R. Jayadevan, who was expected to lead the municipality, won from Pulippara constituency. Also, the party’s district committee members P. Harikesan Nair, SS Biju, R. Madhu, M. Sreekesh and outgoing president CS Sreeja also scored convincing victories.

Interestingly, the CPI(M) alone can secure the required number of seats for a simple majority. Under these circumstances, it is not yet known whether the party will share the vice-chairmanship position with the CPI.

Five years ago, the CPI(M) made a surprise by keeping its pre-election promise to nominate a candidate for the vice-presidential post. While Mr. Harikesan Nair emerged victorious by defeating CPI’s S. Raveendran, he was later forced to tender his resignation after the CPI(M) State leadership intervened to restore peace within the Left alliance.

The Congress came third in as many as 15 districts despite winning two more seats than in the 2020 elections. Additionally, in many districts, Congress candidates received less than 100 votes. The BJP suffered a major setback as all four councilors suffered defeat.

Soon after the results started coming in, celebrations broke out in Nedumangad town as LDF supporters took out a victory procession. Minister of Food and Civil Supplies GR Anil led the celebrations.