Thiruvananthapuram: Counting trends from Kerala’s six municipal corporations indicate a changing urban political landscape, with the United Democratic Front (UDF) making gains, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) facing pressure in cities it once dominated, and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) showing strength in key pockets.

As counting continues on Saturday, current leads suggest a three-way contest shaping the future of urban governance in the state.

Corporation-wise leads

Thiruvananthapuram: LDF 29, UDF 19, NDA 50, Others 2

Kochi: LDF 20, UDF 46, NDA 6, Others 4

Kozhikode: LDF 27, UDF 26, NDA 14

Kollam: LDF 14, UDF 24, NDA 11, Others 1

Thrissur: LDF 11, UDF 33, NDA 8, Others 4

Kannur: LDF 15, UDF 36, NDA 4, Others 1

Clear shift in municipal trends

The trends point to a shift in Kerala’s municipal politics. In the previous local body elections, the LDF had secured control of five of the six municipal corporations, with Kannur being the only exception. Current leads indicate the UDF is now challenging that dominance across multiple corporations.

The NDA’s strong showing in Thiruvananthapuram adds a new layer to the evolving urban political contest.

Implications as counting continues

While the present trends reveal a clear picture, the final results could still change in minor ways as counting progresses. However, the ongoing contest highlights a more competitive political environment in Kerala’s urban centres.