Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: IUML bets on youth, ushers in generational shift

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leadership led by State president Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal has sought to quell internal criticism by ushering in a generational shift through its candidate list for the April 9 Assembly election.

The announcement of candidates on Tuesday (March 17, 2026) surprised many, particularly critics within the party, as it reflected a conscious move to infuse young blood into its legislative ranks. For months, younger members had been quietly demanding greater representation, and the list of the 25 candidates appears to address those concerns.

Breaking from expectations of retaining most of its 15 sitting MLAs, whose average age is above 63, the party introduced 11 new faces, including six young leaders, two women and one non-Muslim candidate. The move was widely welcomed by party workers, especially the youth.

Notable picks

Among the notable picks are Fathima Tahilia for Perambra, T.P. Ashraf Ali for Kondotty, P.K. Firoz for Koduvally, V.K. Faisal Babu for Kozhikode South and P.K. Navas for Tanur. All of them represent the party’s younger leadership.

“We have considered all sections and held extensive consultations before finalising the list,” said Mr. Thangal.

The leadership further signalled its intent by fielding K.M. Shaji in Vengara, a stronghold vacated by national general secretary P.K. Kunhalikutty, who shifted to Malappuram.

However, the transition has not been without friction. Party State secretary Abdurahman Randathani stirred a controversy by criticising the selection of P.M.A. Sameer in Tirurangadi. Despite this, Mr. Sameer’s candidature has found support among sections of the party’s youth.

The IUML had earlier hinted at generational transition during the local body elections by limiting repeat candidates. The appointment of younger leaders like A.P. Smiji to key local posts had also signalled a shift towards inclusivity and renewal.

Many within the party view this as its most significant generational change since 1991, a transition that had once elevated leaders like Mr. Kunhalikutty and E.T. Mohammed Basheer to prominence at relatively young ages. Today, in contrast, the party’s legislative leadership has aged considerably.

Nine sitting MLAs

Nine sitting MLAs have been retained, while several senior leaders have been dropped to make way for new entrants, underscoring the leadership’s attempt to balance continuity with change.

Overall, the candidate list marks a decisive shift in IUML’s approach: one that seeks to rejuvenate the party while managing internal dissent.