As the election season unfolds in Kerala, several former legislators and prominent political figures who are not contesting this year's Assembly polls have nonetheless taken on active roles in campaigning for their respective parties. Their involvement underscores the continuing influence and commitment of seasoned politicians, even when they are not on the ballot themselves.
One notable example is K. Babu, a veteran legislator who has represented the Thripunithura constituency for over three decades. Mr. Babu, a six-time MLA and former Minister, made the distinctive decision to step away from electoral politics, citing health reasons for his retirement. Despite not contesting the elections, he remains deeply involved in the campaign efforts for his party's candidate, Deepak Joy. Mr. Babu has been instrumental in introducing Deepak to the constituency, attending election conventions, participating in constituency tours, and canvassing votes. Additionally, he is engaged in the behind-the-scenes organizational work that supports the campaign's progress.
Similarly, A.N. Shamseer, the Speaker of the 15th Kerala Legislative Assembly and a prominent leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], is also not contesting this election, following the party's policy of not fielding legislators beyond two consecutive terms in safe seats. Instead, Mr. Shamseer has returned to the party's organizational fold with a focus on election campaigning. He has been assigned to lead the campaign in Thalassery, a constituency he previously represented in 2016 and 2021. Beyond Thalassery, he is actively involved in coordinating campaign activities in several key districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode. In his campaign efforts, Mr. Shamseer highlights the development projects and achievements realized during his tenure, aiming to connect with voters through a record of tangible progress.
The involvement of personalities from outside traditional political roles also marks this election cycle. Actor Mukesh, who served as the MLA for the Kollam Assembly constituency in 2016 and 2021, has dedicated himself to campaigning for the CPI(M) candidate S. Jayamohan. Demonstrating his commitment, Mukesh has canceled his shooting schedule for the first week of April to devote his time fully to election activities. He has already participated in several campaign meetings within the constituency and continues to support the candidate's efforts actively.
From the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), senior leader A.N. Radhakrishnan, who has contested nine elections over the years, is playing a pivotal role in election coordination despite not standing for election himself. As the chairperson of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Kerala, Mr. Radhakrishnan is deeply engaged in campaign management, working closely with NDA constituent parties. He also credits himself with facilitating the induction of six prominent leaders from other political parties into the BJP, strengthening the party's position. Mr. Radhakrishnan attends election conventions and meetings in his capacity as a core committee member, contributing his political experience to the alliance's efforts.
The Indian National Congress also features former legislators who, though sidelined from candidacy, remain active in the electoral process. Joseph Vazhakkan, who won the Muvattupuzha seat in 2011 and has contested multiple Assembly elections, has become one of the Congress's star campaigners this time around. Despite not being fielded as a candidate, he is touring extensively across the state to support United Democratic Front (UDF) candidates. His campaign work focuses primarily on the Idukki, Ernakulam, and Kottayam districts, although his presence has been noted in election conventions and political meetings in eight different Assembly constituencies.
Among the sitting MLAs of the Congress who did not receive renomination, Eldhose Kunnappilly stands out for his active involvement in electioneering. Concentrating his efforts in Perumbavoor constituency, he is fully engaged in supporting the party candidate there. Meanwhile, Rahul Mamkootathil, also an MLA but expelled from the Congress, has chosen to stay away from direct campaign activities. However, he remains vocally active on social media, where he continues to criticize the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government and the CPI(M), reflecting ongoing political dynamics even outside formal campaigning.
Another Congress figure, T.P. Sindhumol, reportedly disappointed at not being considered for candidacy this election, is nonetheless committed to playing a significant role in the campaign. She has taken charge as the campaign in-charge of the Kochi constituency. Ms. Sindhumol brings experience from her previous electoral contests, including the 2021 Assembly polls and three civic body elections, to her current role in mobilizing support and organizing campaign activities.
The active participation of these former legislators and leaders across political parties highlights the multifaceted nature of election campaigns in Kerala. Even as some step back from the direct electoral contest, their continued involvement as campaigners, coordinators, and organizers demonstrates their enduring influence and the importance of experienced leadership in shaping electoral outcomes. Their efforts range from grassroots engagement and voter outreach to strategic planning and inter-party coordination, underscoring the complexity and vibrancy of the democratic process in the state.
In summary, the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections see a significant presence of veteran politicians who, despite not contesting, contribute substantially to their parties' campaigns. From K. Babu's groundwork in Thripunithura to A.N. Shamseer's district-wide campaign leadership, from actor Mukesh's full-time canvassing in Kollam to BJP's A.N. Radhakrishnan's alliance coordination, and the Congress veterans' extensive campaign tours, these leaders are instrumental in shaping the electoral landscape. Their experiences and networks provide valuable support to new candidates and help sustain party momentum throughout the election period. This blend of political continuity and active campaigning reflects the dynamic and participatory nature of Kerala's political culture.