Pinarayi Vijayan's Last Stand? Kerala's 2026 Assembly Election Heats Up
M
Moneycontrol•23-02-2026, 14:40
Pinarayi Vijayan's Last Stand? Kerala's 2026 Assembly Election Heats Up
•Kerala's 2026 Assembly election is approaching, with the ruling LDF and Congress-led UDF vying for power, and BJP seeking to emerge as a third alternative.
•The UDF gained significantly in recent local body polls, putting pressure on CM Pinarayi Vijayan, who aims for a record third term despite health concerns.
•CPI-M faces challenges, with some within the Left ecosystem suggesting a term out of power could benefit the party, while Vijayan sees this election as 'now or never'.
•LDF believes it can still win, citing close margins in many UDF-led constituencies and strong grassroots organization, despite setbacks like the 'Nava Kerala Survey'.
•Polarization, minority consolidation, and cultural narratives (like 'The Kerala Story' sequel) are key factors influencing the upcoming election.