Generational shift: PJ Joseph steps aside for son as Kerala Congress (J) unveils candidate list

Idukki/Thodupuzha: In a landmark moment for Kerala’s parliamentary politics, Kerala Congress chairman P J Joseph has announced his retirement from electoral contests after more than half a century. His son, Apu John Joseph, who currently serves as the party's state coordinator, will contest from the Thodupuzha constituency in the upcoming Assembly elections.

P J Joseph has represented Thodupuzha 10 times since 1970. Announcing the decision in Thodupuzha, the veteran leader stated that he is stepping back due to health reasons but assured supporters that he would remain fully active in the election campaign.

New faces and strategic shifts

The party has announced candidates for eight seats, featuring five new faces.
Key highlights of the announcement include

• Incumbents and veterans: Sitting MLA Mons Joseph will defend his seat in Kaduthuruthy, while former MLA Thomas Unniyadan returns to the fray in Iringalakuda.
• Seat reallocation: Following negotiations within the UDF coalition, the Congress party has taken over the Idukki and Ettumanoor seats previously contested by the Joseph faction. In exchange, the Kerala Congress (Joseph) has been allotted Kanhangad instead of Thrikkaripur.
• Fresh blood: Of the eight candidates, five are debutants, reflecting the party's effort to bring new energy into the legislative race.

Apu John Joseph had previously informed the party leadership of his willingness to contest only if his father decided to opt out. With this official handover, Thodupuzha prepares for its first election in decades without P J Joseph on the ballot.

KC(J) full list