United Democratic Front (UDF) workers were seen celebrating after their alliance’s massive victory in the local body elections. Counting of votes began at 8 am amid tight security arrangements at 244 counting centers across the state. Maharaja’s College, one of the major counting centers in Ernakulam district, witnessed a heavy presence of party workers and leaders as trends in several wards started shifting in favor of the UDF.
According to the latest trends released by the Kerala State Election Commission, the Congress-led UDF is leading in 3155 wards. The CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) is leading in 2565 wards, while the BJP-led NDA is leading in 577 wards. Other parties have gained lead in 532 wards. The updated figures point to significant gains for the UDF compared to earlier trends, especially in many urban and semi-urban areas.
Earlier in the day, UDF got a boost in Kottayam when its candidate Dhanya won from Kottayam Municipality Ward 28, giving further strength to the alliance. The Congress-led alliance has shown its strength, especially in municipal and urban areas, indicating a favorable trend in cities and towns.
Meanwhile, BJP leader Shaun George expressed confidence of NDA gaining ground in central and southern Kerala and claimed that traditional voters of UDF and Kerala Congress are shifting towards BJP. He told ANI, “We are confident that the BJP will get a good majority in the Central Kerala region and this time we will get a strong victory in Southern Kerala also. People who have traditionally depended on the UDF and Kerala Congress will extend their support to the BJP this time.”
Counting of votes is underway in several districts including Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, Mallappuram and Kottayam. The final result is expected to be declared by this afternoon after the counting of votes is completed.
