Congress Leads in Kerala Elections: Shashi Tharoor Calls for Change
In the latest Kerala election trends, Congress is showing a strong lead with Shashi Tharoor advocating for significant changes in governance and economic policies. He emphasizes the need for a new political approach to address the state's financial challenges and create job opportunities. As the counting progresses, the dynamics of the Chief Minister position remain uncertain, with Tharoor expressing confidence in the UDF's performance. This article delves into Tharoor's vision for transforming Kerala into an investment hub and retaining its youth.
| May 4, 2026, 11:41 IST
Initial Trends Indicate Congress Dominance
Early trends from Kerala suggest that the Congress party is leading in over 50 seats. Party leader Shashi Tharoor emphasized on Monday the urgent need for changes in governance, policies, and the revival of the state. Tharoor expressed confidence in the United Democratic Front's (UDF) strong performance in the 140-member assembly. He stated, 'We are a party of change. We aim to transform the political practices of this government over the past decade, and this change is so crucial that it must happen. In my opinion, a new kind of politics is essential.'
Discussion on Chief Minister Position
Regarding the Chief Minister position, he mentioned that discussions on this topic would not take place until the election results are finalized. 'Let the results come in. The Congress president will send someone to speak with the winning legislators. After that, they will provide their opinions, and then the high command will make a decision.' According to initial trends released by the Election Commission, Congress is leading in 61 seats in Kerala, while CPI(M) is ahead in 29 seats. As the counting continues across the state, CPI is leading in nine seats, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) in 22 seats, and the BJP in one seat.
Commitment to Economic Growth
Highlighting the financial challenges faced by the state, Tharoor reiterated his commitment to making Kerala an investment hub, creating jobs, and preventing migration. 'I hope my ideas will be beneficial for the new government, but my message will certainly focus on development. We must completely transform this dire financial situation and undertake the necessary work to make Kerala an investment paradise again, so we can foster growth, create jobs for our people, and prevent a situation where our youth feel compelled to leave the state due to a lack of opportunities.'