Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 3: Despite calls from party sections for greater representation of youth and women, senior Congress leaders in Kerala have reportedly decided to renominate most incumbent MLAs for the upcoming assembly elections.

Insiders said the leadership believes retaining sitting legislators would ensure continuity, stability, and reward performance and loyalty during a challenging phase for the party.

Following the expulsion of Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, the Congress has 21 MLAs, with the candidature of three still uncertain. Tripunithura MLA K Babu has reportedly expressed difficulty in contesting on health grounds, though pressure remains on him and the KPCC to enter the fray, especially in light of the BJP’s growing influence in Tripunithura municipality.

The other two MLAs whose prospects are under review are Eldhose Kunnappilly (Perumbavoor) and I C Balakrishnan (Sultan Bathery). Balakrishnan faces corruption allegations in the Wayanad cooperative bank case linked to the death of district Congress committee treasurer N M Vijayan, while Eldhose faces sexual abuse charges. Sources indicated that Perumbavoor, part of Ernakulam district, may see an alternative candidate due to local sensitivities.

In Palakkad, the party will have to field a new candidate following Rahul Mamkootathil’s expulsion.

Meanwhile, Kovalam MLA M Vincent, despite facing sexual harassment allegations, is expected to retain his seat. Sources said Vincent’s position as the lone Congress MLA from Thiruvananthapuram district and his support among party workers and the community make denying him the ticket unlikely.