Thiruvananthapuram: As the five-year term of the six mayors in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kannur, comes to an end and local body elections approach, none of the outgoing mayors are expected to contest in the upcoming polls. However, political circles are abuzz with speculation that at least three of them could emerge as candidates in next year’s Assembly elections.

In Thiruvananthapuram, the absence of Mayor Arya Rajendran from the CPM’s list of local body poll candidates has sparked speculation that she may be earmarked for a larger political role. Arya, who became the country’s youngest mayor at 21, is regarded as one of the CPM’s most prominent youth faces and is believed to be in line for a higher assignment within the party.

In Kollam, mayor Honey Benjamin of the CPI is unlikely to seek another term. Reports indicate that she intends to step back from electoral politics to focus on social work and public service. The CPI had earlier made an exception to its two-term rule to allow her to contest again, citing her strong track record and winnability.

Kochi Mayor M Anilkumar, a four-term councillor and senior CPM leader, is also tipped to return to the political frontline. Party insiders suggest his name is being discussed for the Ernakulam Assembly constituency, where he has previously contested. A seasoned trade unionist and state committee member, Anilkumar is expected to continue playing an active role in the party’s organisational affairs.

In Thrissur, Mayor MK Varghese, who assumed office as an independent, is reportedly leaning towards the ideologies of BJP MP Suresh Gopi. His recent positions have fuelled speculation that he may either join or extend support to the BJP, though no official confirmation has been made. Observers believe he will remain politically active within the district even after his term ends.

In Kozhikode, Mayor Beena Philip, a first-time councillor from the CPM, is said to be under consideration for a party ticket in an Assembly constituency within the district. She, like several other outgoing mayors, is expected to take on greater organisational responsibilities in the party.

Meanwhile, Kannur Mayor Muslih Madathil, the only representative from the IUML among the six, is expected to concentrate on strengthening organisational activities and supporting party colleagues in the upcoming local body elections.

With all six mayors stepping aside from immediate electoral contests, analysts view this phase as part of a wider reshuffle in Kerala’s urban political leadership, a transition that could usher in new faces while positioning some of the outgoing mayors for key roles in the 2026 Assembly elections.