Alappuzha: Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has said that the United Democratic Front (UDF) fought the Kerala Assembly elections 2026 in a united and positive manner and is confident of securing a decisive victory when results are declared on May 4.

Speaking to reporters, Chennithala thanked the UDF leadership, including Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, for actively campaigning in Kerala despite simultaneous elections in other states.

UDF says ‘positive campaign’ well received in Kerala

Chennithala said the UDF election campaign in Kerala was conducted in a systematic and positive manner without personal attacks, which he claimed was well received by voters.

He added that unity within the alliance played a key role in strengthening the front’s position in the Kerala polls 2026.

“The speciality of this election is that there were no differences within the UDF. Everyone understood the sentiments of the people and worked unitedly,” he said.

UDF claims strong anti-incumbency sentiment

The Congress leader said voters are seeking change and expressed confidence that there is a strong anti-incumbency wave against the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government in Kerala.

He alleged that the UDF alliance in Kerala had effectively capitalised on public sentiment and believes this will translate into electoral gains.

Allegations against CPM and BJP

Chennithala also alleged that there were “links” between the CPM and BJP in several constituencies, while maintaining confidence that the UDF will form the next government in Kerala.

He said the contest in the state was primarily between the UDF and the LDF, with the BJP not emerging as a decisive force despite heavy spending during the campaign.

Violence allegations in Kannur

The Congress leader condemned reported incidents of violence in parts of Kannur district, alleging that CPM workers were involved in damaging campaign materials.

He claimed that such incidents reflected frustration over an expected electoral defeat and called for peaceful conduct during the Kerala election process.

High voter turnout linked to electoral roll revision

Commenting on higher voter turnout, Chennithala said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls helped clean up voter lists by removing duplicate or deceased entries, improving electoral integrity.

He added that the primary reason for the high turnout was public demand for political change in Kerala.