Anti-incumbency has been a persistent force shaping Kerala’s electoral results, as voters typically seek a change in leadership at the conclusion of each five-year term. The 2021 election stood as a notable exception.
For the Left Democratic Front (LDF), under the leadership of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), this defeat signifies the loss of its last significant hold after previous losses in West Bengal and Tripura. As a result of the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, this marks the first time in 50 years without a Left government anywhere in India.
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Signs of trouble for the LDF had already emerged due to its underwhelming performance in the 2025 local self-government elections, the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, and various bye-elections. Compounding this were accusations of political arrogance among Left leaders, along with internal conflicts involving G. Sudhakaran, T. K. Govindan, and V. Kunjikrishnan.
On the other hand, the BJP has been progressively securing a foothold among the Malayalee electorate. The party has made some headway in Kerala, challenging long-held perceptions of its limited organizational influence within the state.
Last year, the BJP gained control of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. Previously, Nemom was the sole Assembly constituency where the party had achieved victory, with O. Rajagopal winning in 2016.
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The United Democratic Front secured 102 seats, while the LDF managed to claim victory in 35 of the 140 constituencies. The BJP won three seats—Nemom and Kazhakoottam in Thiruvananthapuram district and Chathannoor in Kollam.
First Published: May 4, 2026 4:47 PM IST
