Thiruvananthapuram, 15 May (HS): The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has emerged as one of the biggest political gainers in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, winning 22 of the 27 seats it contested as part of the United Democratic Front (UDF) alliance. The party swept all the seats it contested in Malappuram district and also created history by sending Advocate Fathima Thahliya from Perambra in Kozhikode as its first woman MLA to the Kerala Legislative Assembly.
Political observers believe the IUML’s strong electoral performance and its firm support for V D Satheesan played a significant role in the Congress high command choosing him as the next Chief Minister of Kerala. With the UDF securing a decisive mandate in the state, the Muslim League is now expected to wield considerable influence in the formation of the new government and the allocation of portfolios.
Although there were initial discussions within UDF circles regarding the possibility of offering the Deputy Chief Minister’s post to the IUML, party sources now indicate that the League is likely to settle for five Cabinet berths in the new ministry.
The party is reportedly aiming to secure several high-profile departments that it had traditionally handled during previous UDF governments. Among the key portfolios the IUML is expected to demand are Industries and Information Technology, departments earlier managed by senior IUML leader P.K. Kunhalikutty. The party is also keen on obtaining the General Education and Higher Education portfolios, which have historically remained among its top preferences.
In addition, the IUML is believed to be seeking control over Local Self-Government, Public Works or Urban Development, and Social Justice or Minority Welfare departments.
During the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, crucial portfolios such as Education, Industries and Public Works were largely controlled by the CPI(M), while the Revenue department was handled by the CPI. However, with the UDF returning to power, many of these influential departments are expected to shift into the hands of coalition partners, particularly the Muslim League.
At the same time, sections of civil society and political commentators have raised criticism against the possibility of handing over the Education department to parties such as the IUML or Kerala Congress, arguing that the portfolio should remain under broader secular and administrative control.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
