Kerala Congress (M) (KC(M)) chairman Jose K Mani returned early from a private foreign trip on Wednesday to address mounting speculation regarding his party’s political alignment, firmly asserting that the regional party remains loyal to the CPM-led Left Democratic Front (LDF). Mani emphasized that his party’s power and influence continue to rest within the LDF, dismissing reports suggesting any inclination towards the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).

Speaking to reporters in Kottayam, Mani, a Rajya Sabha MP, clarified, “The Kerala Congress (M) has only one stand. We are with the Left front. I cannot come every day and say this. Who is conducting these so-called discussions? No one should cry for us.” His statement came against a backdrop of media reports claiming that KC(M) leaders were engaged in backchannel talks with the Congress to rejoin the UDF—a move that would mark a significant political shift for the party.

The KC(M), a party that commands significant support among Catholics and farmers in central Kerala, joined the LDF in 2020. The decision followed the death of Jose’s father and former party chairman KM Mani, as well as a long-standing feud with the PJ Joseph-led faction of the Kerala Congress. Since then, KC(M) has been a key ally of the Left front, and Mani reiterated that the party’s loyalties remain intact despite recent rumors.

“Such media speculations are proof of the strength of our party. Wherever KC(M) is, there will be power,” Mani said, indicating the continuing political clout of his party in Kerala politics.

The party leadership is scheduled to convene its steering committee meeting on January 16, where internal discussions are expected regarding the party’s stance in the changing political landscape, especially after the recent local body polls. In these elections, the LDF suffered setbacks at the hands of the UDF, and the KC(M) itself performed below expectations, failing to secure control of the Pala municipality, traditionally considered a stronghold of the party.

Addressing concerns about internal divisions, Mani stated, “There are no differences within the party. All five MLAs will stand together. Many opinions will come up during party discussions and a single decision will be made.” His remarks sought to convey a unified front within the KC(M) amid speculation of shifting alliances.

Meanwhile, KPCC chief Sunny Joseph dismissed reports of any discussions with KC(M) leaders, asserting, “We have not conducted any talks. The popular base of the coalition is expanding and more prominent persons from other parties will join us.” His comments suggest that while political speculation continues, no formal steps toward alliance negotiations have occurred between KC(M) and the UDF.

In another development, the Kerala cabinet on Wednesday approved the leasing of 25 cents of land in Kowdiar, Thiruvananthapuram, to establish the KM Mani Memorial Institute for Social Transformation, named in honor of the late KC(M) founder. The decision reflects efforts to preserve KM Mani’s legacy and underscores the continued significance of the Mani family in Kerala’s political and social landscape.

The KC(M)’s position in Kerala politics remains strategically important, as the party often acts as a key swing force in coalition calculations, particularly in central Kerala constituencies. Its loyalty to the LDF is viewed as critical to maintaining the Left front’s stability, especially in the wake of electoral setbacks at the local level.

Jose K Mani’s firm reiteration of allegiance to the LDF is expected to quell immediate speculation but also signals the party’s intent to assert its influence within the coalition. With the steering committee meeting approaching, internal deliberations will likely focus on strategies to strengthen KC(M)’s electoral performance and reaffirm its relevance in both state-level politics and regional constituencies.

The unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance of coalition politics in Kerala, where regional parties like KC(M) play a decisive role in determining the fortunes of both major fronts. As the state navigates post-election dynamics, KC(M)’s decisions in the coming weeks could have far-reaching implications for political alignments and future electoral strategies.