The Congress has announced candidates for 25 of the 26 wards in the Aluva municipality, a traditional stronghold of the party, where it is eyeing another term while braving possible ‘rebel trouble’. The party finalised the candidates late on Saturday (November 15, 2025) after day-long discussions led by prominent leaders.
Congress veteran and outgoing municipal chairperson M.O. John has opted out of the contest this time, while the party sprang a surprise by bringing in Ghiles Devassy Payyappilly, who served as the leader of the Opposition in the current council. Mr. Payyappilly, who won as a CPI(M)-backed independent in 2020, will be the Congress candidate in Thottakkattukara (ward 24) this time. He joined the Congress on Saturday after resigning as councillor.
The Congress list in Aluva features a mix of seasoned leaders and new faces. The party has retained eight incumbent councillors in the fresh list, including deputy chairperson Saiji Jolly.
‘Rebel threat’
Though the party claims the seat distribution was carried out smoothly, Congress insiders admit it is still facing challenges from potential rebel candidates. Local leaders who had hoped to find a place on the candidates’ list have reportedly begun raising objections in wards 5, 8, 18, 20, and 22.
The CPI(M)-led LDF is yet to announce its candidates, while the BJP-led NDA has released its list.
Published – November 16, 2025 09:18 pm IST
