Kerala local body election: Fresh polling scheduled in 3 wards on January 12 following candidate deaths
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Election Commission has scheduled elections for three local body wards on January 12, after polling was postponed due to the deaths of the candidates.
Polling will take place from 7 am to 6 pm, while the counting of votes will begin at 10 am on January 13.
According to the election notification, nomination papers can be filed until December 24, with scrutiny scheduled for December 26. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is December 29.
Candidates who were in the fray at the time polling was cancelled on December 9 and 11 are not required to file nominations again. However, those wishing to contest afresh may submit new nomination papers by December 24. Candidates who had already withdrawn before the cancellation will need to renominate if they intend to contest.
Wards going to polls
The special elections will be conducted in:
- Payimpadam ward, Moothedam Grama Panchayat, Malappuram district
- Onakkoor ward, Pampakuda Grama Panchayat, Ernakulam district
- Vizhinjam ward, Thiruvananthapuram Corporation
The model code of conduct will remain in force throughout Moothedam and Pampakuda grama panchayats, and only within the Vizhinjam ward of Thiruvananthapuram Corporation.
The Election Commission said candidates must submit their election expenditure statements to the respective local body secretaries by February 12, 2026.
The special polls are being held to fill vacancies caused by the death of candidates, ensuring continuity in local governance.