Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 13 (NationPress) As the Assembly elections approach, the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) finds itself in a vulnerable position after disappointing outcomes in the December 2025 local body elections. In this climate, the Kerala Congress(M), which ranks as the third-largest partner in the ruling coalition, is contemplating a potential return to the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).

The party, under the leadership of Jose K. Mani, is currently at the heart of a significant political flux, igniting discussions about a possible realignment that could dramatically reshape Kerala's electoral dynamics.

Back in 2020, Jose K. Mani transitioned the Kerala Congress(M) from the UDF to the LDF, marking the end of a long-standing relationship with the Congress-led coalition.

This shift was formalized before the 2021 Assembly elections, where the party contested 12 seats and won five, earning ministerial roles in the Pinarayi Vijayan administration.

However, Jose faced a notable setback, suffering a significant defeat in Pala, a traditional stronghold previously held by his late father, K.M. Mani.

With five years elapsed in the LDF’s ongoing term, the political landscape has evolved.

The Left's underwhelming performance in the recent local body elections has led to introspection among its allies, including the Kerala Congress(M).

There's a growing sentiment within the party that staying aligned with the LDF may not be beneficial in the long run, especially with Assembly elections looming.

Discussions about a potential return to the UDF have gained traction, bolstered by encouraging signals from the Congress leadership and interest from key UDF members, particularly the Muslim League.

Moreover, the involvement of the Catholic Church has emerged as a critical factor, seeking to unify Christian votes in central Kerala and restore what it perceives as a community equilibrium within the UDF.

Nevertheless, this shift is not without its challenges.

State Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine, one of the party’s prominent figures in the LDF government, appears hesitant to relinquish the benefits of power.

Similarly, Pramod Narayanan, an MLA, is currently indecisive, aligning with Augustine, while two others support Jose. The party's Chief Whip, Dr N. Jayaraj, remains undecided.

Intense discussions are reportedly underway to persuade Augustine to join Jose K. Mani, a crucial move to ensure organizational cohesion and political credibility.

Recently, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan and IUML leader P.K. Kunhalikutty have engaged with Jose, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that Sonia Gandhi has also reached out to assure him of support should he choose to return.

The Kerala Congress, known for its history of shifting alliances, now stands at a pivotal juncture. The ability of Jose K. Mani to manage internal disagreements, navigate coalition talks, and facilitate a return to the UDF could be crucial not only for his party's future but also for the broader dynamics of the upcoming Assembly elections in Kerala.

All eyes will be on the party's meeting this Friday, where a definitive decision is expected to manifest.