Kerala election race: CPM flags Ambalappuzha as high-stakes constituency

Alappuzha: In a district secretariat meeting held in Alappuzha, CPM State Secretary M. V. Govindan instructed party leaders to ensure there are no lapses in campaigning and voter mobilisation in the Ambalappuzha constituency.

Govindan emphasised that even if the party forms the government, losing the Ambalappuzha seat would be a significant political setback. He directed leaders to avoid any complacency and ensure that every possible vote in favour of the party and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) is secured.

The contest in Ambalappuzha has gained attention with former CPM leader G. Sudhakaran now contesting with the support of the United Democratic Front (UDF). Govindan noted Sudhakaran’s claims of attracting a substantial number of votes and referred to his political positioning during the internal meeting.

The sitting MLA H. Salam is the LDF candidate from the constituency.

Govindan alleged that Sudhakaran has engaged with various groups holding differing ideological positions and suggested that his political stance should be explained clearly to voters. He urged party workers to highlight what he described as opportunistic politics during the campaign.

The meeting also reviewed campaign activities across all nine assembly constituencies in the district. While some constituencies were assessed as having favourable prospects, leaders were instructed not to take any outcome for granted and to ensure maximum voter turnout.

Govindan reiterated that the party should not respond to every allegation made by Sudhakaran but instead focus on exposing what he described as political inconsistencies. He also made remarks referencing Sudhakaran’s past associations and current political alignment, urging cadres to communicate these points to the electorate.

Following the district-level review, Govindan also attended meetings of constituency committees in Ambalappuzha, Alappuzha and Kayamkulam to further coordinate campaign strategies and organisational efforts ahead of the election.