Thrissur (Kerala) April 14 (NationPress) Senior Congress figure and CWC member Ramesh Chennithala expressed optimism on Tuesday regarding the United Democratic Front (UDF) regaining power in Kerala with a significant majority, attributing this to a strong anti-incumbency sentiment and a cohesive campaign led by senior leader Rahul Gandhi.

While speaking to the press in Thrissur, Chennithala remarked that the citizens of Kerala are yearning for a decisive political transformation following a decade of Left governance.

“The statistics presented by the CPI-M are exaggerated and intended solely to uplift cadre spirits. The actual situation on the ground is different; there is a visible desire for change,” he stated, refuting claims made by Left officials.

The Left has asserted that they are poised to secure a record third term.

Chennithala credited the Congress-led coalition's momentum directly to Rahul Gandhi's leadership, highlighting that the former Congress President has closely monitored the campaign from the beginning.

"He has ensured coordination by uniting leaders in Delhi, promoting solidarity along with the Congress president, and providing explicit directives for collaborative efforts. He assessed progress at every phase,” Chennithala remarked.

He also acknowledged the contributions of party General Secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi along with the central leadership in crafting a cohesive and media-savvy campaign strategy.

According to Chennithala, the Congress in Kerala has showcased a united front, while the UDF has operated with organizational harmony.

As chair of the Campaign Committee, he noted that the alliance executed an almost flawless campaign, adapting to contemporary media dynamics and voter engagement techniques.

"There is a palpable pro-UDF wave. Our target is to secure 100 seats,” he stated.

He emphasized that the anti-incumbency feeling directed towards the state government and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is evident throughout various districts.

"Through extensive travels and interactions with voters, it became clear that public sentiment is strongly in favor of the UDF,” he added.

Chennithala also vehemently criticized the BJP, denouncing recent comments made by its leaders regarding the Christian Church and clergy.

"Attacks and animosity directed toward bishops, priests, and nuns are intolerable in our society. Religious leaders have the right to voice their opinions and guide their communities,” he warned, cautioning that Kerala would firmly oppose any efforts to replicate the violent incidents against Christians that have been reported in parts of northern India.

He further claimed that the ruling coalition’s affiliations with groups like SDPI and PDP would not be accepted by the voters.

“Such opportunistic alliances reveal the lengths they are willing to go for electoral gains,” he commented.

On matters concerning the party internally, Chennithala asserted that the Congress high command is fully equipped to address issues through established protocols, encouraging the media not to misinterpret social media narratives.