MOHAMMAD ZIYAUDDIN
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Thiruvananthapuram: The Congress high command has sent a strong message to the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), urging its top leaders to set aside differences and launch a unified attack against the ruling LDF government. In a strategic move, Shashi Tharoor has been assigned a key role in formulating policy arguments to counter the LDF’s claims on Kerala’s economic growth, tourism, and startup ecosystem.
With the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections approaching, the Congress leadership is focused on consolidating its state unit to effectively challenge Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s government.
Congress High Command Directs State Leaders to Work Together
The Congress leadership has instructed both VD Satheesan and Ramesh Chennithala—who have often been at odds—to work together in the Kerala Assembly while debating critical state issues and responding to key legislative bills.
A senior Congress leader from Delhi, speaking anonymously, stated:
“The central leadership has strictly instructed state leaders to avoid factionalism and ensure that no public statements disrupt party unity. The AICC will be directly monitoring developments in Kerala over the next year.”
This directive is part of a larger strategy aimed at ousting the CPI(M)-led LDF government in the upcoming March 2026 elections.
Shashi Tharoor to Lead Policy Responses Against LDF
Congress has placed Shashi Tharoor at the forefront of its media and policy strategy in Kerala. Tharoor will be responsible for:
Leading press conferences and media interactions.
Countering the LDF government’s claims on trade policies, fiscal management, and welfare schemes.
Presenting Congress’s alternate economic and governance roadmap to challenge CPI(M).
With his strong national and international reputation, Tharoor is expected to give credibility to Congress’s narrative and appeal to the educated and urban voter base.
A Unified Opposition: The Only Way Forward
Recognizing the importance of a strong coalition, the Congress leadership has engaged in one-on-one discussions with key Kerala leaders, emphasizing a unified approach.
The party is also keen on securing the support of its major ally, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), to maintain the United Democratic Front (UDF) alliance.
