‘Let new faces lead’: Mohanlal’s words echo as AMMA election heats up with suspenseful climax ahead
Kochi: “Let anyone who wishes to contest come forward. Let new faces take on the leadership of the organisation...” These words from Mohanlal as he stepped down from the president’s post now appear to be fully reflected in the upcoming election of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
The Hema Committee report and the controversies that followed have brought the organisation into an unprecedented situation—something underscored by the lengthy list of candidates contesting in this year’s election. A total of 74 nominations have been received for 17 positions, marking a record participation in the organisation's history.
Notably, for the first time ever, six individuals have filed nominations for the president’s post, making it a jumbo list across all positions.
Those who have filed nominations for the presidency include Jagadish, Shwetha Menon, Devan, Jayan Cherthala, Ravindran and Anoop Chandran. Among them, Jayan Cherthala is likely to withdraw his nomination. Indications suggest that the main contest will be between Jagadish and Shwetha Menon. Interestingly, Ravindran, Jayan Cherthala and Anoop Chandran have submitted nominations for multiple positions, including president, general secretary, treasurer, vice president and joint secretary.
To break down the nomination numbers:
- President: 6 candidates
- Vice President: 10 candidates
- General Secretary: 5 candidates
- Joint Secretary: 13 candidates
- Treasurer: 9 candidates
Suspense will continue until July 31, the final date for withdrawal of nominations. The election is scheduled for August 15.
There are hints that this time, a woman may be elected to one of the key leadership positions, including either president or general secretary, fulfilling the aspirations of several members.
Shwetha Menon has filed her nomination for the presidency, while Kukku Parameswaran has entered the race for general secretary. Kukku’s entry is expected to offer a strong contest to Baburaj, who is also contesting for the same post.
For the vice president and joint secretary positions, five women candidates each have filed nominations, including Navya Nair, Ansiba Hassan and Kukku Parameswaran. Among them, Ansiba is likely to contest for the joint secretary post.