In a recent interview, Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor clarified that he is not in contention for the Chief Ministerial position for the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. Tharoor stated he will not be running in the elections, as his role will focus on co-chairing the campaign committee. He expressed his primary responsibility is to traverse all 14 districts of Kerala to communicate the party’s message effectively to voters.

Tharoor emphasised that the selection of a Chief Ministerial candidate will be determined by the Congress high command after consulting with UDF MLAs. He remarked, “I am not even a candidate in the election, so the question is irrelevant. The system is that the high command will consult the elected MLAs and make a decision.” His comments suggest a deference to the opinions of those directly involved in local governance.

UDF Targeting Majority in Assembly

The Congress leader expressed confidence that the UDF will secure between 72 and 75 seats in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, thereby exceeding the majority mark of 71 in the 140-seat legislature. He noted that his colleagues are optimistic about achieving between 85 to 100 seats, suggesting a positive outlook from those active in local constituencies.

Tharoor took a firm stance against the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), characterizing the state’s governance as a shift from a “Kerala model” to a “debt model.” He accused the LDF of misgovernance and indicated a growing anti-incumbency sentiment among voters. He commented, “LDF has represented 10 years of misgovernance, and there is a strong anti-incumbency against them. We represent the most credible alternative for change.”

The Congress MP raised concerns about the state’s fiscal situation, stating that the government struggles to manage its finances effectively, highlighting issues with salary payments and rising debt. He suggested that many young people are leaving the state due to a lack of job opportunities and called for an Investor Protection Act aimed at attracting business investments to Kerala.

A Vision for Retirement Tourism

Tharoor proposed transforming Kerala into a retirement haven for Indian citizens, likening it to “the Florida of India.” He framed this initiative as vital for the state’s economic recovery, stressing the importance of creating attractive conditions for businesses and retirees alike.

Critique of CPI(M) and BJP’s Position

Tharoor criticised the CPI(M) for allegedly misusing taxpayer funds, suggesting that government contracts are often funneled to party affiliates. Regarding the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he dismissed their presence in Kerala politics, stating that they lack significant influence in the state’s assembly and are unlikely to be decisive in the upcoming elections.

As the Congress party prepares for the April 9 elections, Tharoor expressed dissatisfaction with the short campaign duration provided by the Election Commission. He noted the timing of the election announcement left the party with limited time for preparations, expressing concern about the implications this might have for voter outreach and campaign effectiveness. The electoral process will culminate in vote counting on May 4, with the current assembly’s tenure concluding on May 23.

Candidates Announced by Congress

On March 17, the Congress party unveiled its first list of 55 candidates, including prominent figures such as Kerala Congress Committee President Sunny Joseph and Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan. A subsequent list featuring 37 additional candidates was also released, indicating the party’s strategic positioning for the upcoming elections. The previous elections in 2021 saw the LDF retain power with 99 seats, marking a significant political milestone in the state.

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