Karat Razak Ends Decade-Long CPM Ties, Returns to IUML in Major Political Shift
In a significant development that could reshape electoral dynamics in Kerala's Kozhikode district, former Koduvally MLA Karat Razak has formally ended his decade-long association with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and rejoined the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). The move comes ahead of crucial assembly polls and is viewed as a potential morale booster for the United Democratic Front (UDF) coalition.
Homecoming Ceremony at Panakkad Residence
Razak officially returned to IUML at the Panakkad residence of state party president Panakkad Sadikali Shihab Thangal, who personally handed him his party membership slip. Describing the occasion as a heartfelt homecoming, Razak expressed profound happiness at returning to what he called his parent political organization.
"I am delighted to be back with my original party," Razak stated during the ceremony. "This feels like returning to where I truly belong after a long journey."
Allegations of Sidelining Within LDF
The former legislator revealed that his decision stemmed from feeling marginalized within the Left Democratic Front (LDF) alliance. Razak specifically alleged that certain LDF leaders actively worked against him during the 2021 assembly elections, and this exclusionary treatment continued even after the electoral defeat.
Razak also launched sharp criticism against PWD minister P A Mohamed Riyas, accusing him of deliberately stalling several crucial development projects in the Koduvally constituency. These allegations highlight growing internal tensions within the ruling coalition as election season approaches.
Electoral History and Strategic Implications
Razak's political journey has been marked by significant shifts:
- He originally left IUML ahead of the 2016 elections
- Successfully wrested the Koduvally seat for LDF that year
- Was fielded again as an LDF-backed candidate in 2021 but lost to IUML's MK Muneer
Koduvally constituency has traditionally been an IUML stronghold, with the Left Democratic Front managing to secure victory only twice – in 2006 and 2016. The CPM-led front is maintaining its previous strategy by fielding Left-backed independent candidate Saleem Madavoor for the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, IUML has nominated Muslim Youth League state president P K Firos for the constituency, making the electoral contest particularly intriguing given Razak's return to the IUML fold.
Leadership Reactions and Political Momentum
IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty welcomed Razak's return, asserting that political momentum in Kerala is shifting decisively in favor of the United Democratic Front. He pointed to the steady stream of leaders joining UDF as evidence of growing dissatisfaction within the ruling LDF coalition.
"The continuous flow of experienced leaders to our front reflects widespread discontent within the current ruling alliance," Kunhalikutty declared. "We anticipate substantial electoral gains, particularly in the Kozhikode region, where this development will significantly impact voter sentiment."
Administrative Position and Future Plans
Currently serving as chairman of the Kerala Madrassa Teachers Welfare Fund Board, Razak confirmed he would step down from this administrative position following his return to IUML. This move underscores his commitment to fully reintegrate into his original political home without holding positions that might create conflicts of interest.
The political realignment comes at a critical juncture as Kerala prepares for assembly elections, with Koduvally constituency emerging as a key battleground where traditional loyalties, personal grievances, and strategic calculations are converging to create a complex electoral landscape.
