Thiruvananthapuram, 04 May (H.S.):As counting progresses in the Kerala Assembly elections, the Kerala Congress faction led by P. J. Joseph has emerged as a strong performer, registering an impressive lead across most of the constituencies it contested.

The Kerala Congress (Joseph) faction, which fielded candidates in eight constituencies, is currently leading in seven seats, signalling a significant resurgence for the party within the United Democratic Front (UDF). The constituencies where the party has taken a lead include Irinjalakuda, Kothamangalam, Thodupuzha, Kaduthuruthy, Changanassery, Kuttanad, and Thiruvalla. The strong showing is being viewed as a major boost for the UDF, which is witnessing a broader wave in its favour across the state.

In stark contrast, the Left Democratic Front (LDF)-aligned Kerala Congress (M) has suffered a severe electoral setback. The party, led by Jose K. Mani, contested 12 seats but has failed to secure a lead in any of them so far. This marks a dramatic reversal of fortunes for the party, which had won five seats in the previous Assembly election.

High-profile leaders of Kerala Congress (M) are also trailing amid the shifting political landscape. Party chairman Jose K. Mani is behind in the Pala constituency, while senior leader and minister Roshy Augustine is trailing in Idukki. Their setbacks underscore the intensity of the UDF surge, which appears to have disrupted traditional strongholds of the LDF and its allies.

The ongoing trends suggest a decisive shift in voter sentiment, with the Kerala Congress (Joseph) faction capitalising on the momentum, while Kerala Congress (M) struggles to retain its political ground. As counting continues, the performance of these regional parties could play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome of the election.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman