As the State goes to polls on Thursday (April 9), Malappuram appears to be a sure bet for the United Democratic Front (UDF), which currently holds 13 of the 16 Assembly seats in the district.
While the overall balance is unlikely to shift dramatically, several constituencies are shaping up for tough, closely watched contests. Among them are Ponnani, Thavanur, Tirur, Tanur, Vengara, Mankada, Perinthalmanna, and Nilambur.
Ponnani, Thavanur, and Tanur, the three constituencies held by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) in the outgoing Assembly, are witnessing fierce contests. Tanur, in particular, looks precarious for the LDF, as the UDF has mounted a strong challenge by fielding young leader P.K. Nawas.
Sensing the shift, Tanur’s LDF incumbent and Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman has moved himself to Tirur, where he takes on UDF incumbent Kurukkoli Moideen. While Mr. Abdurahiman’s network and resources could make an impact, overcoming Mr. Moideen’s strong local support will be a challenge.
Ponnani, a traditional stronghold of the LDF, is witnessing a closely fought battle between M.K. Sakeer (LDF) and K.P. Noushad Ali (UDF). Mr. Noushad Ali, who has been focusing on Ponnani for over a year, expresses confidence in staging an upset. Yet, the LDF remains assured of its core voter base in the constituency.
