Newly elected representatives in Kerala’s local bodies will formally assume office on Sunday, with the State Election Commission rolling out a clear, time-bound oath-taking and leadership election process to ensure an orderly transition of power.

The oath-taking will begin with the senior-most elected member in each local body. Seniority will be decided based on age or previous tenure, as applicable.

Government-authorised officials will administer the oath.

  • Corporations and district panchayats: District Collectors will oversee the process
  • Grama panchayats, block panchayats and municipalities: Returning officers will conduct the ceremony

After the senior-most member is sworn in, they will administer the oath to the remaining members.

Time and venue details

The Election Commission will issue written notices to all elected representatives, specifying the time and venue.

  • 10 a.m.: Grama panchayats, block panchayats, district panchayats and municipal councils
  • 11.30 a.m.: Municipal corporations

District election officials will monitor the ceremonies and report their completion to ensure compliance with Commission guidelines.

First meeting after oath

Once the oath-taking is completed, the first meeting of the newly constituted body will be held under the chairmanship of the senior-most member.

During this meeting, the secretary will read out the official notification related to the election of leadership positions.

Dates for mayor, chairperson and panchayat president elections

The Election Commission has fixed separate dates for leadership elections:

  • December 26, 10.30 a.m.: Election of Mayors and Municipal Chairpersons
  • December 26, 2.30 p.m.: Election of Deputy Mayors and Vice-Chairpersons
  • December 27, 10.30 a.m.: Election of presidents of grama, block and district panchayats
  • December 27, 2.30 p.m.: Election of Vice-Presidents

Quorum rules and adjournment

At least 50 per cent of eligible voting members must be present for leadership elections.

If the quorum is not met, polling will be adjourned to the next working day, when elections can be conducted without a quorum.

What this means for local governance

With these procedures, Kerala’s local bodies will begin a new administrative term, enabling newly elected councils and panchayats to start functioning and take up governance responsibilities.