CPM Eyes Historic Hat-Trick in Kerala as Opposition Struggles
The recent Kerala CPM state committee meeting in Kollam made one thing clear—electoral politics has taken precedence over ideology as the party sets its sights on a historic third consecutive term in power. With the 2026 Assembly elections approaching, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is positioning himself for an unprecedented hat-trick victory, a feat never before achieved in the state’s political landscape.
Vijayan’s Grip on the Party Strengthens
The meeting turned into an exercise in consolidating Vijayan’s leadership, with the state committee backing his claim for a third term. His undisputed control over the party leaves little room for dissent, as even the national leadership, now led by ad hoc General Secretary Prakash Karat following Sitaram Yechury’s untimely demise, has been forced to fall in line.
Despite criticism from traditionalists, Vijayan defended his government’s policy shifts, particularly the welcoming of private investment in infrastructure, healthcare, and education—decisions considered anti-Marxist by purists. In his performance report, the Chief Minister highlighted the state’s progress over the past nine years, emphasizing the need for further development in IT, tourism, and education to sustain Kerala’s growth.
The committee endorsed Vijayan’s vision, even reprimanding those who failed to adequately support his decisions. The party’s deviation from its ideological stance is being seen as a strategic move to retain power in a rapidly changing political landscape.
Can the Opposition Regroup in Time?
A CPM hat-trick no longer seems far-fetched, largely due to the disarray within the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF). The Congress-led UDF, once a formidable rival, is plagued by factionalism, leadership struggles, and internal sabotage. Unless the Congress high command intervenes decisively, the LDF’s path to a third term appears increasingly certain.
The Lok Sabha election results came as a wake-up call for the Left, with the BJP securing a breakthrough in Kerala—Suresh Gopi’s victory in Thrissur marking a historic moment for the party. While the UDF held its ground in most constituencies, analysts believe that a growing BJP presence could reshape the 2026 assembly elections.
Reports suggest a ‘tactical understanding’ between the CPM and the BJP, aimed at weakening the Congress. If true, this could further dent the UDF’s prospects, making it even more difficult for the Congress to reclaim its lost ground.
Kerala: The CPM’s Last Stronghold
With the party decimated in Bengal and Tripura, Kerala remains the last bastion of the CPM, and Vijayan is determined to hold on to it—even if it means compromising on ideological principles. As the 2026 elections draw closer, the battle for Kerala is set to intensify, with the CPM, UDF, and BJP all vying for dominance.
For the Congress, the challenge is clear—unite its warring factions, regain voter confidence, and counter the CPM-BJP equation. If not, the Left Front could script history with a third consecutive term, further altering Kerala’s political trajectory.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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