As Kerala heads to the polls on Thursday, voters in the Pala Assembly constituency face more than a standard electoral choice. For, the day coincides with the seventh death anniversary of K.M. Mani, the late patriarch of the Kerala Congress (M) [KC(M)], whose political legacy continues to influence the region.
Mani passed away on April 9, 2019, at the age of 86. Traditionally, Kerala Congress (M) observes this day with a commemoration at Thirunakkara ground in Kottayam, where supporters pay tribute to his photograph. This year, however, the election schedule has changed the ritual.
Jose K. Mani, son of the late KC(M) founder and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate in Pala, along with his family members will offer prayers at Mani’s tomb at the Cathedral Church in Pala before heading to the polling booths. “I will miss my father very much as I walk to the polling booth,” Mr. Mani said, reflecting the personal weight of the day.
Mani’s hold over Pala was extraordinary. When the constituency was formed in 1965, he left the Congress to contest under the newly formed Kerala Congress and went on to represent the seat for 12 consecutive terms over 54 years. He also served as a Minister for 24 years, handling portfolios including Finance, Home Affairs, Law, Irrigation, Revenue, Housing and Electricity.
