The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key constituent of the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala, has opened its doors for new alliances following the recent local body election results. The party's state president expressed optimism about strengthening the coalition before the crucial upcoming assembly elections.
IUML's Call for a Stronger UDF
On Monday, IUML state president Panakkad Sadikali Shihab Thangal articulated a clear hope that other political parties would join the UDF fold in the run-up to the assembly polls. He interpreted the people's mandate in the local elections as a reflection of public fatigue with the current governance and a desire for the return of good administration.
Thangal stated that the victory exceeded the front's expectations and highlighted that the UDF gained an upper hand in a majority of legislative assembly constituencies across the state. He emphasized that the intent is to reinforce the front's base by welcoming parties with similar ideologies, particularly those disgruntled with the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF).
Political Resolution Decodes the Verdict
The IUML's state committee meeting, also held on Monday, adopted a political resolution that provided a sharp analysis of the election outcome. The resolution firmly stated that the significant gains for the UDF and the Muslim League were a direct verdict against the LDF government's misrule and policies of communal division.
It accused the LDF, led by the CPI(M), of operating under the delusion that it could win elections by fostering communalism and supporting hate speakers. The resolution argued that this strategy ultimately benefited the BJP and was rejected by secular Kerala. It further criticized the ruling front's last-minute political gimmicks, which backfired despite having ruled for four-and-a-half years without substantial achievements.
The resolution specifically mentioned that the people of Malappuram strongly opposed attempts by the Chief Minister and the CPI(M) to portray the region in a negative light.
Confidence for the Assembly Elections
Echoing the sentiment of strengthening the coalition, IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty expressed confidence about the UDF's prospects in the next assembly elections. He termed it a "risk-free affair" for the front, suggesting that their chances are not only safe but have become safer after the local polls.
Kunhalikutty summarized Thangal's message, stating that all political entities who agree with the UDF's core ideology should consider joining the front to present a united and formidable opposition. This move is seen as a strategic effort to consolidate anti-incumbency votes and create a broader platform to challenge the LDF government in the impending electoral battle.
