Idukki gears up for high-stakes battle as UDF, LDF poised to field veteran leaders

As the State prepares for the 2026 Assembly elections, a high-stakes battle is expected in the Idukki district. Two veteran political figures from the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) are expected to return to the fray. According to party sources, Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] veteran M.M. Mani will defend his seat in Udumbanchola, while Kerala Congress chairman P.J. Joseph is set to contest once again from Thodupuzha.

“The CPI(M) district committee will formally recommend Mr. Mani for the Udumbanchola constituency. While the party typically adheres to a ‘two-term’ limit for candidates, local leaders believe an exception is necessary for the veteran leader,” said a party source.

“Mr. Mani is the only suitable candidate for Udumbanchola. The party believes his candidacy will ensure victory for the LDF,” another party source added.

Talking to the media, Mr. Mani said that the party would have the final say on his candidacy. “I will follow whatever the party decides,” he said.

Meanwhile, CPI(M) Idukki secretary C.V. Varghese brushed aside concerns raised about Mr. Mani’s health. “Some groups are intentionally claiming that Mr. Mani is suffering from health issues. These are baseless allegations,” Mr Varghese said.

Mr. Mani, popularly known as ‘Mani Aashan’, remains a dominant figure due to his accessibility and the large-scale development projects completed during his tenure. The Congress party is reportedly waiting for the LDF’s official announcement before finalising a prominent contender to challenge him.

The 2021 election in Udumbanchola famously saw Congress candidate E.M. Augusthy shave his head after losing to Mr. Mani by a record margin of 38,305 votes — surpassing the 20,000-vote margin Mr. Augusthy had dared Mr. Mani to meet.

Congress candidate

In the UDF camp, P.J. Joseph’s candidacy for Thodupuzha appears certain. Despite recent speculation regarding his health and the potential debut of his son, Apu John Joseph, the party leadership has expressed a clear preference for the senior leader.

“Mr. Joseph remains the most suitable candidate for the UDF in Thodupuzha. He has not opposed his candidacy, and his experience is vital for this crucial election. If Mr. Joseph contests, the UDF can secure the Thodupuzha seat. The party leadership will meet in Kottayam soon to finalise a candidate,” said the KC(J) leader.

Mr. Joseph has contested from Thodupuzha 11 times, securing victory on 10 occasions. “In the last local body election, the Kerala Congress’s strong performance was a sign of its continued influence in the Idukki district,” said the leader.