T.O. Mohanan May Represent UDF in Kerala Assembly Elections 2026

Following the All India Congress Committee's (AICC) decision to deny assembly tickets to former KPCC president K. Sudhakaran and current MPs, T.O. Mohanan, the former mayor of Kannur, is likely to be fielded as the UDF candidate for the Kannur constituency in the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections in 2026. In a conversation with a local news outlet, Mohanan mentioned that he has not yet received any formal communication regarding his candidacy. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that any candidate contesting under the UDF banner in Kannur would achieve a significant victory. He acknowledged that the selection of candidates often leads to confusion and disputes during the pre-election phase, but these issues tend to settle once nominations are finalized.

Despite the AICC's decision, Mohanan stated that he would respond after an official announcement regarding Sudhakaran's insistence on contesting. Just days before his departure to Delhi, Mohanan met with Sudhakaran, who assured him of full support. Highlighting the UDF's 'organizational strength,' Mohanan emphasized the coalition's unique system, where candidates gain strength from the alliance regardless of personal relationships. He criticized the LDF government, claiming that its decade-long rule has caused hardships for the public. According to him, the CPI(M) has become a party serving a select few individuals and their families, with policies favoring corporate interests and the wealthy. He asserted that disillusioned CPI(M) workers and those concerned about the party's future would support the UDF in the upcoming elections.