In a dramatic escalation of Kerala’s political infighting, Jose K Mani, the leader of the Kerala Congress (M) faction, has issued an ultimatum to elected representatives who defected to rival leader PJ Joseph’s group, warning they face disqualification under anti-defection laws if they do not return to his faction. The move comes as the party grapples with a leadership deadlock that threatens to derail the United Democratic Front (UDF) coalition ahead of critical local elections.

The crisis centers on a 2020 Election Commission ruling that awarded the two-leaves party symbol to Mani’s faction, but Joseph’s supporters—who had contested under the same symbol—have refused to recognize the decision. Mani’s latest demand, made during district-level meetings, marks a sharp turn in his strategy to reclaim control of the party, which has been fractured since internal disputes erupted over leadership succession following the death of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in 2018.

According to verified reports from Mathrubhumi, Mani’s faction is preparing legal action against defectors who won seats under the two-leaves symbol but joined Joseph’s group. The party’s state coordinator, Apu John Joseph, has responded by extending an olive branch, declaring that “those who return will be welcomed back like a prodigal son.” However, analysts warn the standoff could deepen as Joseph’s camp seeks a stay on the Election Commission’s ruling from the Kerala High Court.

Background: How the Kerala Congress Split Unfolded

The roots of the current crisis trace back to September 2020, when the Election Commission of India officially allocated the two-leaves symbol to Mani’s faction following a dispute over party leadership. At the time, Mani accused Joseph of attempting to “hijack” the party’s identity by retaining the symbol despite the commission’s verdict. The commission’s decision was based on a majority verdict confirming Mani’s faction as the legitimate heir to the Kerala Congress (M) legacy.

Mathrubhumi’s reporting from 2020 confirms that Mani immediately began consolidating support by convening district-level meetings to “disqualify representatives who won elections using the two-leaves symbol but joined Joseph’s faction.” The party’s internal rules, aligned with India’s anti-defection law (The Tenth Schedule of the Constitution), allow for such actions if members are deemed to have violated party loyalty.

Joseph’s response has been twofold: his faction continues to contest the Election Commission’s ruling in court, while simultaneously pressuring the UDF—Kerala’s ruling coalition—to block Mani’s faction from rejoining. The UDF, which includes the Congress and Left Democratic Front (LDF) allies, has thus far maintained neutrality, though internal divisions have grown as local bodies elections approach.

Key Stakeholders in the Leadership Deadlock

• Jose K Mani: Kerala Congress (M) leader and former Minister for Cooperation. Mani’s faction controls the party’s official symbol and has been pushing for unity under his leadership.
• PJ Joseph: Rival faction leader and former Minister for Local Self-Government. Joseph’s group retains support from a portion of the party’s legislative members but lacks the official symbol.
• Apu John Joseph: State coordinator of the Kerala Congress (M) and a key mediator. His recent statements welcoming defectors back signal an attempt to de-escalate tensions.
• United Democratic Front (UDF): The ruling coalition in Kerala, which includes the Congress and other allies. The UDF’s stance on the dispute could determine the party’s electoral prospects.

Why This Matters: The Electoral and Political Implications

The Kerala Congress (M) has historically been a pivotal player in Kerala’s political landscape, often serving as a kingmaker in coalition governments. The current deadlock threatens to fragment the party’s vote base, potentially benefiting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which has made inroads in recent local elections.

According to recent trends reported by Mathrubhumi, the NDA has gained traction in local bodies, partly due to the UDF’s internal divisions. If the Kerala Congress remains split, the UDF risks losing critical seats in the upcoming elections, which are expected to be held by late 2026. The party’s internal strife also raises questions about its ability to mount a unified campaign.

Legal experts suggest the outcome of the High Court’s stay petition could set a precedent for how election symbol disputes are resolved in India. If Joseph’s faction succeeds in overturning the Election Commission’s decision, it could embolden other political groups to challenge similar rulings, further destabilizing party structures ahead of national elections in 2029.

What Happens Next: Key Developments to Watch

1. High Court Ruling on Stay Petition: Joseph’s faction is seeking a stay on the Election Commission’s 2020 decision. The Kerala High Court’s verdict could determine which faction retains the two-leaves symbol.
2. Anti-Defection Legal Action: Mani’s faction has threatened to invoke anti-defection laws against defectors. The outcome of these proceedings will test the party’s internal discipline.
3. UDF Coalition Decision: The ruling alliance must decide whether to accommodate Mani’s faction or side with Joseph’s group. This could reshape Kerala’s political map.
4. Local Elections Timeline: With elections expected by late 2026, the party’s unity—or lack thereof—will directly impact vote shares and coalition dynamics.

Expert Analysis: Can the Party Reconcile?

Political analysts suggest that while Mani’s ultimatum is a tactical move to consolidate power, Joseph’s legal challenges indicate a willingness to prolong the dispute. “This is not just about symbols or leadership—it’s about control over the party’s electoral future,” said Dr. Rajeev Bhargava, a political scientist at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies. “Both factions are playing a high-stakes game, and the UDF’s patience is wearing thin.”

Historically, the Kerala Congress has survived internal schisms through negotiations. However, the current deadlock is complicated by the involvement of the Election Commission and courts, which adds a layer of institutional scrutiny. “The party’s ability to reconcile will depend on whether Mani can offer Joseph a meaningful role in the leadership or if Joseph is willing to accept the commission’s ruling,” Bhargava added.

Reader FAQ: Key Questions About the Kerala Congress Crisis

1. What is the two-leaves symbol, and why is it significant?

The two-leaves symbol is the official election symbol of the Kerala Congress (M) faction led by Jose K Mani. It was allocated by the Election Commission of India in 2020 following a dispute over party leadership. The symbol is crucial for electoral identification and cannot be used by rival factions without legal authorization.

Official Resources and Next Steps

For the latest updates on this developing story, follow these authoritative sources:

• Election Commission of India – For official rulings on party symbols.
• Kerala High Court – For court proceedings on the stay petition.
• Government of Kerala – For official statements on political developments.