UDF’s potential alliance with Kerala Congress could reshape Kerala’s political dynamics ahead of 2026 elections.
New Delhi: The United Democratic Front (UDF), led by the Congress party in Kerala, has begun preparations for the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections, focusing on expanding its alliance to consolidate minority votes.
According to sources, Kerala Congress, which has a strong base among the Christian community, particularly in central Kerala, may be planning to join the UDF.
A Congress leader in the state said, “Ramesh Chennithala, who is currently the general secretary in charge of Maharashtra, is leading the outreach efforts to parties currently aligned with the Left Democratic Front (LDF). He is the one said to have initiated talks with these parties.”
The Sunday Guardian tried to reach out to Chennithala, but did not receive a response. According to Congress leaders, their entry into the UDF would strengthen Congress’s appeal to minority voters, particularly in regions like Kottayam, Idukki, and parts of Pathanamthitta. While the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) is also interested in joining the UDF, its minimal presence in Kerala means its entry could be symbolic of a larger shift in smaller parties aligning with the UDF, boosting the perception of a united opposition against the LDF.
A Congress legislator told The Sunday Guardian, “As of now, no decision has been taken.”
The LDF, led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), relies on a broad coalition of regional and ideological partners. The departure of Kerala Congress, a traditional ally, could weaken the LDF’s influence in central Kerala, and reduce its reach in Christian-majority constituencies. As a result, the LDF would need to rely more heavily on its core base among the Hindu and Ezhava communities, and work harder to fill the gap left by Kerala Congress.
According to a political analyst in the state, “The UDF already enjoys significant support among Muslims and Christians. With Kerala Congress aligning with it, the coalition would likely consolidate minority votes further, posing a stronger challenge to the LDF in the upcoming elections.”
According to a section of political observers, this shift could also provide an opportunity for the BJP to make inroads in Kerala.
A political observer said, “The BJP, which has struggled to establish a foothold in Kerala, might seize the situation to position itself as an alternative for Hindu voters disillusioned by the LDF-UDF rivalry. However, the impact will depend on its ability to mobilise grassroots support.”
Another political observer said, “The LDF is facing anti-incumbency in the state, which will require strategic adjustments, including focusing on welfare programs, energising its cadre base, and improving its appeal among urban and youth voters. However, this seems difficult as the trust in the current chief minister is declining.”