Kerala CPI MLA Mukundan threatens independent run, accuses party of trading seats for election funds

The candidate selection process of the Communist Party of India (CPI) for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections has sparked controversy, as sitting Dalit MLA C C Mukundan from Nattika has threatened to contest as an independent after being denied a party ticket. He has accused CPI leadership of prioritizing candidates who can raise funds , alleging that seats are being traded for election money.

Mukundan, a senior CPI legislator representing the Scheduled Caste-reserved Nattika constituency in Thrissur, is widely respected for his clean image, grassroots work, and strong voter connect . The constituency has been a CPI stronghold for years, and Mukundan’s exclusion in favor of former MLA Geetha Gopi , who faced allegations and was denied a ticket in 2021, has ignited claims of factionalism, caste bias, and financial favoritism within the party.

Speaking to reporters, Mukundan said, “They want funds, and I cannot provide them like others. So they have selected a candidate who can provide money.” He added that internal party infighting and caste considerations also influenced the decision. Mukundan has confirmed talks with leaders from the UDF and BJP , though he insists he prefers to contest independently.

CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam rejected the allegations of fund-linked nominations, stating the party has never engaged in such practices. He emphasized that Mukundan would not publicly oppose the party and that there are no issues in the Nattika constituency warranting such claims.

Geetha Gopi, who served as MLA for a decade, said she would follow party directives and that the voters would decide the outcome. She declined to comment directly on Mukundan’s allegations, noting that a CPI district council meeting scheduled for Tuesday will address the matter further.

Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala confirmed recent communication with Mukundan but stressed that no formal move has been made to induct him into the UDF . Analysts warn that Mukundan’s potential independent bid could split the LDF vote in Nattika , potentially benefiting rival fronts even if he does not formally align with them.

The CPI has finalized its candidates for the 25 seats it will contest in the LDF, including writer Alankode Leelakrishnan in Thrissur and renomination of four sitting ministers, reflecting broader strategic shifts. Mukundan’s exclusion, however, marks a potential flashpoint that could influence voter dynamics in the constituency and across the district. With Kerala’s Assembly elections slated for April 2026 , all eyes are on whether Mukundan will file as an independent and how his credibility and local support might reshape the electoral battle in Nattika and surrounding constituencies.