Counting of votes for Kerala’s 1,199 local bodies began on Saturday, with 244 centers and 14 district collectorates reporting early trends. Postal ballots were first tallied, followed by EVM counting, giving the state a glimpse into its political mood ahead of the next assembly elections.

Within the first hour of counting, the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) emerged as the leader in a majority of grama and block panchayats, while the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) held an edge in municipalities and corporations. As of 9:25 am, the LDF led in 261 grama panchayats compared to UDF’s 228. In urban local bodies, UDF dominated 43 municipalities, 7 district panchayats, and 4 corporations, with the LDF ahead in 26 municipalities, 6 district panchayats, and 1 corporation.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led NDA also showed presence, leading in 15 grama panchayats, 3 municipalities, and a corporation. In Thiruvananthapuram corporation, traditionally an LDF stronghold for 45 years, NDA was ahead with LDF close behind, signaling potential shifts in voter loyalty in urban centers. Minor disruptions at counting centers in Thiruvananthapuram, Palakkad, and Vadakara caused temporary delays for booth agents and candidates.

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For the LDF, these results are seen as a crucial indicator of public satisfaction after nearly a decade in power. Party sources emphasized a focus on development and welfare politics while downplaying controversies such as the Sabarimala gold theft, which they believe will minimally impact voters. A weak performance in corporations or panchayats could trigger internal introspection within the CPM leadership.

The UDF views the elections as a test of revival after years in opposition. Senior leaders expressed optimism about improved performance compared to 2020, though concerns remain over the impact of controversies involving expelled MLA Rahul Mamkootathil and intra-party disputes. The elections also gauge the leadership strength of KPCC president Sunny Joseph and three working presidents leading their first major polls.

Meanwhile, the BJP aims to establish itself as a credible third force with a target of 25% vote share. Party leaders highlighted their strategy of development-focused politics rather than Hindutva, claiming gains in both Hindu- and Christian-dominated areas. Failure to win key urban centers could undermine the party’s ambitions and the leadership of state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar, making the outcome critical for all three fronts.

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