Did UDF Approve Cooperation with Former Left-Backed Legislator Anvar?

Kozhikode (Kerala), May 2 (NationPress) In a significant development, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) convened a pivotal meeting here on Friday, where they agreed to collaborate with P.V. Anvar, the former two-time CPI-M backed Independent legislator from Nilambur in Malappuram district.

UDF Convenor M.M. Hassan announced that the resolution aims to facilitate Anvar's integration into the UDF.

"The UDF assembly has tasked Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan with determining the specifics of the collaboration with Anvar. Satheesan will engage with our allies and the Congress party's high command over the next week," he stated.

In response, Anvar remarked: "This is indeed encouraging news, and we will await further developments."

The Congress-led UDF is comprised of more than six allies, and Anvar has been a staunch critic of the party since his initial electoral victory in 2016, where he bested Congress candidate Aryadan Shoukath.

After securing a second victory against Congress, he developed a close relationship with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, intensifying his critiques of the Congress-led UDF.

However, last year, Anvar distanced himself from Vijayan and the CPI-M, launching fierce attacks against them for nearly six months.

Following his criticisms, the CPI-M expelled him, and Anvar shocked many when he resigned from his legislative position in January.

Despite his resignation, the Congress-led UDF remained unimpressed, leading Anvar to become the coordinator for the Trinamool Congress in Kerala.

Nonetheless, the Congress relievedly noted Anvar's decision not to contest the forthcoming by-election, as he pledged his support to the UDF and offered to campaign for their candidate.

Last week, Anvar conducted a private meeting with Congress leaders, including state party President K. Sudhakaran and Satheesan, who assured that they would address his situation at the upcoming UDF meeting.

It was following this UDF gathering that the alliance expressed its willingness to accept Anvar.

With the UDF now extending a green light to Anvar, he is expected to energetically oppose Vijayan and the CPI-M when the by-election is declared.

This upcoming by-election will be a critical test for the ruling Left Democratic Front, especially as the CPI-M has already floated the narrative for a third Vijayan government. If they fail to secure the by-election, which they have held since 2016, it raises concerns about their prospects for the 2026 Assembly elections and the formation of a third consecutive Left government.