Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: CPI(M) courts IUML rebels, leaves seats open for strategic gains

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], which previously experimented with strategic alliances by backing influential Independents in the district, is now actively reaching out to disaffected leaders of the United Democratic Front (UDF), particularly the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), ahead of the April 9 Assembly election.

The announcement of candidates inevitably leaves some aspirants disappointed in any political party. Sensing an opportunity, the CPI(M) focussed on dissatisfied leaders, leaving seats like Tirur, Tanur and Vallikkunnu temporarily unfilled to accommodate potential entrants.

The party’s expectations seemed validated when IUML State secretary Abdurahman Randathani publicly expressed dissatisfaction after being denied a ticket. Seizing the moment, the CPI(M) reportedly offered him the option to contest from a constituency of his choice as an Independent backed by the Left Democratic Front (LDF). CPI(M) polit bureau member A. Vijayaraghavan even praised him as a prominent and steadfast voice within the IUML.

However, after a day’s uncertainty, Mr. Randathani chose to remain with the IUML. He subsequently withdrew his criticism of the party leadership and deleting his Facebook posts.

Offers declined

Undeterred, the CPI(M) continued its outreach efforts. It approached V.K.M. Shafi, a Muslim Youth League leader from Valanchery, and Riyas Mukkoli, former Youth Congress Malappuram parliamentary constituency president, both of whom were reportedly unhappy over being denied tickets. Despite their disappointment, both of them declined the CPI(M)’s overtures and later confirmed that they had been contacted by the party.

Another name that surfaced was Shafi Chaliyam, an IUML leader known for frequently representing the party in television debates. Although initially disheartened when the candidate list was announced by State president Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal, Mr. Shafi swiftly reaffirmed his loyalty to the IUML through public statements.

A breakthrough

Despite several unsuccessful attempts, the CPI(M) appears to have made a breakthrough in Malappuram. IUML rebel Kunnath Mohammed has entered the fray in Mankada as an Independent candidate against UDF nominee Manjalamkuzhi Ali, who is seeking his sixth term in the Assembly.

CPI(M)’s declared candidate for Mankada, M.P. Alavi, said on Sunday that he would be willing to step aside if the party decides to back Mr. Mohammed against Mr. Ali, who had earlier served as MLA from Mankada twice with CPI(M) support, before joining the IUML in 2010.

A final decision on the LDF’s candidate in Mankada is expected on Monday, the last day for filing nominations, potentially setting the stage for a closely watched contest in the constituency.