Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 13 (NationPress) The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has characterized the results of the Kerala local body elections as a robust affirmation of its political stance. Senior figures such as Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge applauded the mandate while critically addressing the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF).

Rahul Gandhi, the former MP from Wayanad and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, termed the results as “decisive and encouraging,” indicating a rising public faith in the UDF ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

“The election results indicate that the people of Kerala are seeking accountable governance—a government that is attentive, responsive, and effective,” Gandhi declared, extending congratulations to party leaders and workers statewide for their persistent grassroots efforts. He remarked that the mandate signifies the UDF's dedication to people-centered politics.

Mallikarjun Kharge, the Congress president, expressed gratitude to the Kerala electorate for what he called a decisive outcome in favor of the UDF during the local polls.

“The Indian National Congress conveys its sincere thanks to the people of Kerala for the strong mandate bestowed upon the UDF. We are optimistic that our coalition will achieve a similar mandate in the upcoming Assembly elections,” Kharge added, emphasizing that the Congress intends to campaign with “a full sense of responsibility and united purpose.”

Congress General Secretary and Alappuzha MP K.C. Venugopal adopted a more confrontational tone, labeling the results a clear repudiation of the Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF, which he accused of evolving into a “corrupt, authoritarian, and anti-people regime.”

Venugopal asserted that the local body results are merely a preview of what is to come in the 2026 Assembly elections, forecasting that several traditional Left strongholds would be lost. He also claimed that voters have dismissed the BJP’s “divisive politics,” which he argued jeopardizes Kerala’s social fabric.

The UDF’s advancements were especially notable in districts historically viewed as LDF strongholds, indicating a significant anti-incumbency sentiment.

Reaffirming the UDF’s commitments, Rahul Gandhi stated that the alliance would persist in addressing the daily concerns of citizens and strive for a “transparent, people-first administration,” leveraging their local body presence to enhance governance at the grassroots level.

Venugopal framed the results as both a local triumph and a strategic political shift, suggesting that it heralds a broader realignment in Kerala's political landscape ahead of next year's Assembly elections.

With the confidence projected by Congress leadership, the UDF aims to establish itself as the key challenger to the Left government, conveying a strong message that Kerala’s voters are demanding change, accountability, and responsive governance.