CPI(M) district secretariat suggests M.M. Mani’s candidature in Udumbanchola

Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] veteran M.M. Mani is set to contest the upcoming Assembly election from the Udumbanchola constituency. The CPI(M) district secretariat has formally recommended his name, with party sources confirming that he is the sole nominee suggested for the seat.

The recommendation puts to rest earlier speculation that the veteran leader might not contest the election due to health concerns. However, the political landscape in Idukki has shifted following recent local body elections, where the party faced significant setbacks.

“In the current situation, the party observes that only M.M. Mani can retain the Udumbanchola seat. He remains highly active within the constituency,” a party source said.

A dominant figure

Popularly known as “Mani Aashan,” he remains a dominant figure in the region, bolstered by his accessibility and the large-scale development projects he completed during his tenure. In the 2021 election, Mani defeated UDF candidate E.M. Augusthy by a record margin of 38,305 votes. The LDF is now aiming for a repeat of that performance.

“As an MLA, he spearheaded major development activities. Furthermore, his standing as a plantation leader gives him deep-rooted influence that will be pivotal for the party,” the source added.

In the Devikulam constituency, the district secretariat has suggested that sitting MLA A. Raja contest again. However, the LDF faces a new challenge as former CPI(M) leader and three-time MLA S. Rajendran has moved to the BJP fold. Mr. Rajendran’s extensive influence among plantation workers is viewed as a significant threat to the LDF’s prospects in Devikulam. Despite this, the LDF remains hopeful that the strong presence of its trade unions in the plantation sector will be enough to retain the seat.

Currently, neither the UDF nor the BJP has officially announced their candidates for the Udumbanchola and Devikulam constituencies.