CPI(M) Leader M Swaraj Responds to LDF Setback in Local Body Elections

Thiruvananthapuram: CPI(M) State Secretariat member M Swaraj said that the LDF had not anticipated defeat in the recent local body elections, and that the alliance had deserved a better result. “However, the verdict of the people was different,” he added.

Swaraj emphasized that while the welfare of the people and the state’s development are important considerations, voters ultimately decide what issues guide their vote. “We accept the people’s verdict. But that does not mean abandoning the progress made under LDF rule in terms of development and public welfare,” he said.

He noted that some commentators argue that the election reflected a desire to return to the UDF era, citing power cuts, load shedding, delays in textbooks distribution, and reductions in welfare pensions. Swaraj, however, rejected this interpretation. “The people have accepted the positive changes brought about under LDF governance. Those achievements need no correction. Still, we will examine why the local election outcome differed, learn from the public, make necessary adjustments, and continue to raise awareness among citizens,” he said.

Swaraj recalled that the last time the LDF faced a local election setback was in 2010—a defeat far more severe than the recent one. Lessons learned from that experience enabled the alliance to achieve major victories later. “No single defeat marks the end of history. We will return and win, because a people-centric politics must ultimately prevail,” Swaraj asserted.