Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: UDF Confident of Victory Amid Counting Preparations

UDF's Optimism Ahead of Vote Counting

As the vote counting for the Kerala Assembly elections of 2026 is set to commence soon, Sunny Joseph, the president of the Kerala Congress, expressed strong confidence in a decisive victory for the United Democratic Front (UDF) on Monday. Speaking to a news outlet, Joseph stated that the results would mirror those of the recent local body elections, reflecting public sentiment against the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). He emphasized, "We are very hopeful. We will win. The results will replicate those of the local body elections. We are confident of our victory. While we cannot predict the exact numbers, issues like anti-people policies, Sabarimala, and gold smuggling are significant topics of discussion in this election."

Response to CPI(M)'s Majority Claims

In response to the CPI(M)'s claims of a majority, Joseph remarked that it is natural for them to assert such claims. He believes they will continue to do so until the results are announced, but he is certain of their defeat once the results are in. The counting process will begin at 8 AM with postal ballots, followed by the counting of EVM votes starting at 8:30 AM. Live updates will be available on the ECI-NET platform, and the counting process is being closely monitored under strict security at all counting centers, including Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram.

Voter Turnout and Exit Poll Predictions

The state witnessed a voter turnout of 78.27% during the single-phase polling held on April 9. Exit polls suggest that the UDF, led by Congress, is likely to secure a lead, with projections indicating they could win between 72 to 90 seats in the 140-member assembly, while the LDF is expected to secure between 49 to 62 seats. The NDA, led by the BJP, is anticipated to win only a few seats. Meanwhile, BJP leader V. Muraleedharan highlighted development and good governance under Narendra Modi's leadership as key issues, expressing hope for "positive decisions" in favor of the NDA.

Confidence in UDF Leadership

Congress MP J.B. Mathar also expressed confidence in the UDF government, stating that the Chief Minister will be a Congress leader selected after consultation with the party's high command. The LDF, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, is attempting to secure power for the third consecutive term following its historic victory in 2021, which broke the tradition of alternating governments in Kerala.