Thiruvananthapuram, March 17(HS):

After days of uncertainty and internal deliberations, the Congress party on Tuesday released its first phase of candidates for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, announcing nominees for 55 constituencies across the State.

The release of the list came later than expected, with Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan earlier indicating that the names would be finalised within 24 hours. However, the announcement was delayed by nearly 48 hours, reflecting ongoing negotiations and unresolved differences within the party.

Significantly, the Congress has held back candidate announcements in a few key constituencies where internal disagreements persist. Seats such as Kannur, Perumbavoor, and Thrippunithura remain undecided, suggesting that further rounds of discussions will be required before a final consensus is reached.

Among the prominent names announced, actor Ramesh Pisharody will contest from Palakkad, marking a notable entry of a film personality into the electoral fray. Senior leader K. Muraleedharan has been fielded from Vattiyoorkavu, while A. Suresh, who previously served as private secretary to former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, will contest from Malampuzha.

Former Member of Parliament Ramya Haridas has been nominated from Chirayinkeez, aiming to make a strong comeback in state politics. Meanwhile, M. Vincent, who has faced allegations of sexual misconduct, has once again been given the ticket to contest from Kovalam, a move that may attract political scrutiny.

In other key constituencies, Youth Congress state president O.J. Janish will contest from Kodungallur, Advocate Sunil Laloor from Nattika, and Abdul Rasheed has been fielded against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Dharmadam. K.M. Febin will represent the party in Alathur, while Rajan Pallan has been named the candidate for Thrissur.

The Congress is expected to release its next list soon as it continues efforts to finalise candidates in remaining constituencies ahead of the elections.

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman