Is Kerala witnessing cracks within the CPM ahead of the polls?

Rajiv G, M K Sunil Kumar & KP Sai KiranTNN

Apr 3, 2026 | 21:50 IST

(Image: AI)

Rebel candidates, leadership friction and multiple fault lines are emerging across Kerala’s political landscape. Together, they pose a serious test for LDF’s bid for a third straight term

The road to the 2026 Kerala assembly elections is shaping up to be a defining political moment not just for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), but, more crucially, for chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. At stake is more than an electoral victory; it is a referendum on whether the “Pinarayi brand” of governance can withstand anti-incumbency and deliver an unprecedented third straight term in a state historically known for political alternation.

TOI

TOI

Is Kerala witnessing cracks within the CPM ahead of the polls?

Rebel candidates, leadership friction and multiple fault lines are emerging across Kerala’s political landscape. Together, they pose a serious test for LDF’s bid for a third straight term

{{{h1}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{{h3}}}

{{{offerprice}}}

{{{h3}}}

{{{offerprice}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{h2}}

{{{h1}}}

{{h2}}

{{{h1}}}

{{h2}}

Your Privacy is Important to us

Opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information

TOI

Is Kerala witnessing cracks within the CPM ahead of the polls?

Rebel candidates, leadership friction and multiple fault lines are emerging across Kerala’s political landscape. Together, they pose a serious test for LDF’s bid for a third straight term

{{{h1}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{{h3}}}

{{{offerprice}}}

{{{h3}}}

{{{offerprice}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{{h1}}}

{{h2}}

{{{h1}}}

{{h2}}

{{{h1}}}

{{h2}}