Kerala Congress (M) Leadership Reaffirms LDF Alliance Amid Growing Confusion
The leadership of the Kerala Congress (M) has firmly stated that the party will continue its alliance with the Left Democratic Front (LDF). They see no reason to switch back to the United Democratic Front (UDF). However, this declaration has not cleared the air within the party ranks.
Internal Confusion and Member Discontent
A significant number of party members are staying away from the Left front's programs. This action highlights the growing confusion and dissatisfaction among the grassroots. Meanwhile, many within the UDF believe the chances of Kerala Congress (M) returning to their fold are quite high.
Amid this political uncertainty, the party's all-important steering committee meeting is scheduled for Friday. It will take place at the party headquarters in Kottayam. Party chairman Jose K Mani is expected to make a crucial and sensible decision during this gathering.
Factors Fueling the Alliance Switch Talks
Discussions about a potential switch gained momentum after the LDF suffered a major setback in recent local body polls. These elections occurred in areas where Kerala Congress (M) traditionally holds strong influence. The Catholic Church, which forms the core vote bank of the party, has also expressed a clear desire. They want the party to rejoin the UDF.
However, the Church leadership is now highly dissatisfied. They are upset with news reports suggesting they held discussions to facilitate Kerala Congress (M)'s return to the UDF.
Public Rifts and Leadership Challenges
Adding to the confusion, party chairman Jose K Mani did not participate in a recent protest. The Chief Minister organized this protest in Thiruvananthapuram against the Union government's policies. Following this absence, the internal rift regarding an alliance change became public.
Irrigation Minister Roshy Augustine and MLA Pramod Narayanan took to Facebook to state their position. They declared they would continue to support the LDF. This public disagreement underscores the divisions within the party.
Jose K Mani has faced the most significant fallout from the recent controversies surrounding the party's potential move. His close associates believe the details of the alliance change discussions were deliberately leaked to the public.
Underlying Loyalties and Electoral Realities
Although Jose K Mani repeatedly affirms his confidence in the unity of the party's five MLAs, the reality is different. The discussions about changing alliances have undeniably caused a rift in party unity.
Despite being allied with the Left front for the past five years, the hearts of many Kerala Congress (M) members still lie with the UDF. This sentiment is evident from recent voting patterns.
In the local body polls and the Lok Sabha elections, the UDF emerged victorious in key districts. These include Kottayam, Idukki, and Pathanamthitta, where Kerala Congress (M) holds considerable influence. The UDF's success even extended to areas considered strongholds of Kerala Congress (M), revealing a disconnect between the party's official alliance and its voter base.
