Amid intensifying speculation over a possible return to the United Democratic Front (UDF), the Kerala Congress (M) is set to convene a crucial meeting of its State secretariat in Kottayam on Friday.

While the official agenda centres on preparations for the upcoming local body elections, party insiders confirm that the recent setback in the Nilambur bypoll is likely to dominate discussions. “Concerns over anti-incumbency and growing unrest among settler farmers are real. From farm distress and frequent wildlife attacks to unresolved issues such as the Munambam land row, the party has much to renegotiate with its traditional vote base if it is to continue with the LDF,” a senior KC(M) leader admitted.

At the same time, the party acknowledges that walking away from the LDF won’t be easy. The CPI(M) has made significant concessions to keep the KC(M) within the alliance, including handing over a Rajya Sabha seat to party chairman Jose K. Mani. With no clear alternative alliance and considerable political capital already invested, the leadership remains cautious.

Still, pressure is building within the party. Some factions view the current moment as an opportunity to demand a greater share of seats in the local body elections and revive the KC(M)’s grassroots strength. Whether chairman Jose K. Mani will endorse such a stance remains uncertain.

In the meantime, the party is already laying the groundwork for its poll campaign, especially in central Travancore. Efforts are under way to address an array of local issues ranging from flood mitigation to tackling wildlife incursions in the high ranges.

Aimed at countering voter fatigue and a possible anti-incumbency wave, the KC(M) is also preparing to field those with strong community roots and family ties in hopes that familiar faces will help regain public trust at the ward level.

Meanwhile, the Congress in central Travancore has already signalled its willingness to welcome the KC(M) back into the UDF fold. With an eye on consolidating the Christian vote, the Congress sees the return of the KC(M) as vital to both a central Travancore resurgence and a deeper engagement with the Catholic Church.