Kochi: United Democratic Front (UDF) candidates M.T. Omana and Sabu Francis, both from the Congress, were elected chairperson and vice-chairman, respectively, of the Thrikkakara municipality on Wednesday, with a one vote margin.
In a closely-fought battle, the UDF candidates secured 22 votes as against 21 votes by the LDF nominees K.K. Neenu and K.T. Eldho. The cash-rich Thrikkakkara municipality has 43 councilors.
M.P. Jose, Deputy Collector (Land Acquisition), served as the returning officer and administered the oath to both the winning candidates.
Speaking to reporters after the swearing-in, Ms. Omana assured to work for the development of the municipality by taking into confidence the people and the entire council. The jubilant UDF supporters took out a victory march soon after the results were declared.
Though both Ms. Omana and Mr Francis feigned ignorance about the understanding reached within the party about sharing the office in the next three years, sources familiar with the development said such an arrangement has indeed been worked out. Sources said Ms Omana, who belongs to the 'A' group will step down from the position after 18 months and the remaining term will be shared between Ajitha Thankappan 'I' faction and Sheela Charu. Mr Francis will give way for P.M. Yusuf of Indian Union Muslim League after 18 months.
Elections to the posts became necessary after a no-confidence motion was passed against the LDF chairman Ms. Neenu last month. Mr Francis, serving as vice-chairman with LDF support resigned before the motion against him was taken up. Mr Francis, who won the election as UDF rebel, switched sides and returned to the Congress, changing the equations in favour of the UDF.
The LDF ad wielded power for over two years with the support of Mr Francis and CPM rebel M.M. Nasser who remained with the LDF after the UDF failed to guarantee him vice-chairman's post.
