MALAPPURAM: If everything goes as per the script, Vengara byelection will sound the bugle for a political realignment helping the UDF to strengthen the front. If Kerala Congress leader K M Mani decides to bury the hatchet and participate in the election campaign for the IUML candidate, the UDF leadership here believes it will facilitate Mani’s re-entry into the front. Though the UDF leadership hasn’t received any formal communication from Mani in this regard, they believe Mani will participate in the campaign for K N A Khader as he did for Kunhalikutty in Malappuram Lok Sabha by polls.
“We hope Mani will campaign for Khader and his arrival will pave the way for a new political realignment in the state,” said KPCC secretary K P Abdul Majeed. The KC(M) had held a convention supporting Kunhalikutty ahead of the Malappuram byelection, and leaders including P J Joseph had attended the meet. Mani’s arrival in Malappuram was welcomed and termed as a favourable indication by Congress leaders including Oommen Chandy while P K Kunhalikutty stated IUML will continue its efforts to bring KC(M) back to the UDF.
“The KC(M) doesn’t have a strong vote base in Vengara. But, his presence will help to strengthen the UDF,” said Muslim Youth League state secretary Mujeeb Kaderi.
End to Congress - IUML rivalry?
The UDF is getting positive signals from Vengara with Congress leaders playing active role in the campaign for Khader. Difference of opinion at grassroots had led to cadres of the Congress and the IUML facing off in several panchayats in the local body elections breaking frontal equations. Congress activists had extended support to LDF candidates in the Assembly elections in a few IUML seats like Tanur. Enraged, IUML activists extended support to LDF candidates in constituencies contested by the Congress like Nilambur. “The change of attitude on the part of Congress will help end the stand off between the two parties at the local level,” said Mujeeb Kaderi. It’s learnt the Congress wants Khader to secure maximum votes as it will help the state leadership to impress the national leadership.
“In the national level, it is felt the party should stand united to fight BJP. This positive attitude will reflect in Vengara also,” said Abdul Majeed. The Congress had snapped its ties with the CPM at Marakkara, Chokkad, Kalikav and Edappatta panchayats after Khader was appointed IUML district general secretary. Khader issued a strict direction to IUML local leaders to resolve issues with the Congress. “Khader is acceptable for the Congress and his intervention has helped the front resolve the local issues,” said Mujeeb.
KC(M)’s support sought
The IUML state leadership has officially sought the support KC(M) for the Vengara bypoll