Thiruvananthapuram: Ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, the Congress has taken a decisive step in finalising its candidates. Preliminary candidate panels for 92 constituencies in the state have been prepared and are ready to be submitted to the high command. As the ‘Puthuyuga Yathra’ led by Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan progresses, the leadership is planning to release the first phase of the candidate list during the yathra itself to energise party workers.
First List to Include 40 Candidates; Sitting MLAs Safe
Around 40 candidates from non-controversial constituencies are expected to be announced in the first phase. Most sitting MLAs—except in three constituencies—are likely to feature in the initial list. The panels have been prepared giving priority to winnability, with equal consideration given to newcomers and prominent figures.
Notable Names and Constituencies
The prominent names included in the panels are as follows:
K. Muraleedharan: His name figures in panels for Thrissur, Vattiyoorkkavu, Nemom and Thiruvananthapuram constituencies.
Sandeep Warrier: Having recently left the BJP, Sandeep Warrier is being considered for Shornur, Ottappalam, Palakkad or Aranmula.
Shashi Tharoor: Surveys are being conducted to field Shashi Tharoor in Nemom, where the BJP is attempting to strengthen its influence.
Ramesh Pisharody: Actor Ramesh Pisharody is under active consideration for Thripunithura constituency.
I.M. Vijayan: There are moves to field former footballer I.M. Vijayan in Nattika.
Ramya Haridas: Former MP Ramya Haridas may be considered for Balussery or Adoor.
District-Level Changes (Thrissur)
Some changes are visible in candidate selection in Thrissur district. T.N. Prathapan’s name has been included in panels for Kodungallur and Vaippin. Former Wadakkanchery MLA Anil Akkara is included in panels for Kunnamkulam and Manalur this time.
Alliance Talks Accelerate
Seat-sharing discussions with the Muslim League have been expedited by the Congress. However, talks with Kerala Congress are reportedly more complex.
With the slogan “UDF to Reclaim Kerala,” the Puthuyuga Yathra, which began at Kumbala in Kasaragod, will conclude on March 6. It is expected that the first phase of the candidate list will be released with the high command’s approval before the yathra concludes.
