Venugopal Rejects Rumors of CPI-M Rebel Sudhakaran as UDF Candidate in Ambalappuzha
Synopsis
In a decisive statement, K. C. Venugopal, Congress General Secretary, has rejected rumors about CPI-M rebel G. Sudhakaran potentially running as the UDF candidate in Ambalappuzha, affirming that the UDF already has a candidate in place. As Kerala approaches elections on April 9, tensions rise within the political landscape.
Key Takeaways
Venugopal has denied rumors about G.
Sudhakaran's candidacy for UDF.
The UDF claims to have a candidate ready for Ambalappuzha.
Kerala elections are set for April 9.
Venugopal predicts a UDF win in Ambalappuzha.
Criticism of the Left government reflects voter sentiment against its rule.
Alappuzha (Kerala), March 15 (NationPress) On Sunday, K. C. Venugopal, the Congress General Secretary for Organisation, refuted claims suggesting that veteran CPI-M leader G. Sudhakaran, who has expressed his intention to run as an Independent, might become the candidate for the United Democratic Front (UDF) in Ambalappuzha. Venugopal confidently stated that the UDF already has a candidate prepared for this constituency.
Kerala is set to hold elections on April 9 to select 140 legislators in a single phase.
Earlier this week, Sudhakaran, a former minister during the tenures of V.S. Achuthanandan and Pinarayi Vijayan (2016-21), revealed his decision to contest independently from his former stronghold of Ambalappuzha, previously affiliated with the CPI-M.
In response to media inquiries in Alappuzha, Venugopal remarked that he was "not an astrologer" to speculate on Sudhakaran’s potential candidacy.
He characterized such speculation as untimely and emphasized that candidate selections are determined by the party’s Central Election Committee.
"Currently, the UDF has a candidate in Ambalappuzha. Why are we discussing this at this moment?" Venugopal stated, affirming the UDF's confidence in securing victory in the constituency.
He portrayed Ambalappuzha as a seat where the UDF anticipates a win early in the counting process. Venugopal explained that the final decisions regarding candidate placements would be made by party leadership, applying the same process to Ambalappuzha.
Additionally, Venugopal launched a vigorous critique of the Left government under Pinarayi Vijayan, claiming that the citizens of Kerala are resolutely opposed to the extension of the current administration for a third consecutive term.
He noted that the populace has grown disillusioned with the Left government and is determined to bring an end to its rule through the electoral process.
"In just 26 days, the verdict to terminate the misgovernance of the Left administration will be decided at the ballot box," he asserted.
Venugopal highlighted that the campaign period would be brief since the first week of April coincides with Holy Week and Vishu falls on April 14, leaving approximately 13 to 14 days for active campaigning.
He also accused the government of misusing public funds for extravagant publicity campaigns, alleging that resources were being spent on initiatives that should rightfully be the responsibility of the incoming government.
Venugopal concluded by stating that the Congress candidate list would be finalized in the upcoming days, expressing optimism that the UDF would form the next government with policies focused on providing support to youth, women, and other vulnerable communities.
Point of View
The ongoing political dynamics in Kerala are crucial as the state prepares for elections. The assertions made by K. C. Venugopal highlight the complexities within the UDF and the broader political landscape, revealing the challenges faced as candidates and parties position themselves ahead of critical voting.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who dismissed the rumors about G. Sudhakaran?
K. C. Venugopal, the Congress General Secretary, dismissed the rumors.
When are the elections in Kerala scheduled?
The elections in Kerala are scheduled for April 9.
What position did G. Sudhakaran hold before announcing his independent candidacy?
G. Sudhakaran served as a minister during the terms of V.S. Achuthanandan and Pinarayi Vijayan.
What is the UDF's stance on the Ambalappuzha constituency?
The UDF maintains that they already have a candidate for Ambalappuzha and are confident of victory.
What did Venugopal say about the current Left government?
Venugopal criticized the Left government, claiming that the people of Kerala are against its continuation.
