KC(M) Chief Jose K Mani Denies LDF Defection Rumors, Stresses Party Loyalty

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Kerala Congress (M) leader Jose K Mani returned to Kerala on Wednesday, putting an end to speculation about his party's potential shift to the Congress-led UDF. In a statement to reporters, Mani reaffirmed his party's allegiance to the CPM-led LDF, stating that they will not abandon their current alliance. This move comes amid rumors of unofficial talks between the KC(M) and Congress, following the party's poor performance in the recent local body polls. Mani, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, emphasized that the KC(M) has always stood by the Left front and will continue to do so. He attributed the media speculation to the party's strength, stating that wherever KC(M) is, there will be power. Mani's comments come ahead of the party's steering committee meeting on January 16, where discussions will focus on potential alliance shifts. The KC(M) leadership is expected to address the party's below-par performance in the local body polls, where the LDF suffered a significant defeat at the hands of the UDF. KC(M) sources indicate that there are no divisions within the party, and all five MLAs will stand united. Meanwhile, Kerala Congress Committee (KPCC) chief Sunny Joseph denied any talks with the KC(M) leadership, stating that the UDF's popularity is expanding, and more prominent figures from other parties may join the coalition. The cabinet has also cleared the leasing of land for the establishment of the KM Mani Memorial Institute for Social Transformation in Thiruvananthapuram city, a move seen as a tribute to the late KC(M) founder.