KOCHI: In a scathing attack on the ruling LDF government, Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan has forecasted a historic mandate for the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the upcoming 2026 Kerala Assembly elections. Using a bold geographical metaphor for the counting process, Satheesan claimed that the UDF would secure the required majority of seats before the tallying even finishes the mid-state districts.
The “Ernakulam” Benchmark
Speaking to reporters in his home constituency of Paravur, Satheesan expressed supreme confidence in the UDF’s performance. “The anti-incumbency wave is so strong that as the counting progresses from Kasaragod southward, the UDF will have already crossed the magic number of 71 by the time the results from Ernakulam are declared,” he stated.
He predicted that the UDF is on track to win over 100 seats in the 140-member assembly, effectively ending the LDF’s attempt at a third consecutive term.
Ministers on the Brink of Defeat
Satheesan did not mince words regarding the current cabinet, predicting a total wipeout for several high-profile leaders.
- A Dozen to Fall: He claimed that at least 12 sitting ministers from the Pinarayi Vijayan-led cabinet are staring at certain defeat.
- The “People’s Court”: “The chargesheet we presented against this government has been accepted by the people. They have already decided to punish this administration for its misrule and corruption,” he added.
Regional Surges
The Opposition Leader highlighted specific districts where he expects the UDF to make massive gains:
- Thiruvananthapuram: A jump from one seat to potentially eight.
- Kollam: A total of eight seats expected for the UDF.
- Northern Shift: Citing recent local body successes in Kozhikode, he noted that the “red fortresses” in the north are crumbling.
Countering CPM Allegations
Addressing the CPM’s recent criticisms regarding the Wayanad rehabilitation funds, Satheesan dismissed them as “political stunts” aimed at diverting attention. He clarified that the Congress (KPCC and AICC) would directly fund the construction of houses for victims and that there was no lack of transparency. He further accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of trying to sow seeds of discord within the UDF to hide his own government’s “impending collapse.”
