Historic Victory for BJP as V.V. Rajesh Becomes Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram
BJP's V.V. Rajesh Elected as Mayor
On Friday, V.V. Rajesh from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was elected as the Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first time a member of the saffron party has held this position in the city's history. Rajesh, who serves as the BJP's Kerala secretary and is a councillor from the Kodungannur ward, secured the backing of 50 BJP councillors along with one independent councillor. In contrast, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate R.P. Shivaji received 29 votes, while K.S. Sabarinathan from the United Democratic Front (UDF) garnered 17 votes.
Rajesh's Vision for Development
Following his election, Rajesh expressed his commitment to inclusive governance, stating that development programs would be implemented across all 101 wards, ensuring equitable treatment for everyone. He emphasized his vision of transforming Thiruvananthapuram into a developed city. The BJP achieved a historic victory in the recent local body elections in Kerala, ending decades of Leftist rule by winning in 50 wards. The LDF managed to secure 29 wards, while the Congress-led UDF made progress by winning 19 wards.
Voter Turnout and Political Impact
The first phase of the Kerala local body elections saw voting in Thiruvananthapuram on December 9, with a voter turnout of 70.91%, according to the State Election Commission (SEC). Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the BJP's historic win, describing it as a pivotal moment in the state's political landscape. In several posts on X (formerly Twitter), he stated that the BJP would continue to work towards the development of Thiruvananthapuram and improve the lives of its residents.
Acknowledgment of Party Workers
In his messages, Modi thanked the BJP workers, recognizing them as the party's strength. He noted, "Today is a day to remember the efforts and struggles of workers who have been active in Kerala for generations, making this outcome possible through their grassroots work."