KOCHI: If the current political scenario is any indication, sitting MLA and UDF candidate in Kochi Dominic Presentation will have to face a tough battle not only from principal opponent CPM candidate K.J. Maxi but the Congress rebels.
Following the reports that K.J. Leenus, former block panchayat president and former district panchayat member, will contest as a rebel in Kochi, a few other party leaders from west Kochi are also planning to file nominations. Former corporation councillor Antony Kureethara told DC that he is planning to contest as there has been growing demand for a candidate from Kochi.
“The MLA has miserably failed in fulfilling his responsibilities as people’s representative with no major development initiatives in the constituency during the last few years. Voters are upset over fielding the sitting MLA and want a new face. I have the support of Kochi natives who are disappointed with the poor performance of the MLA,” he said.
A group of dissidents in the party from Chellanam have decided to field Mr Leenus following unrest over Mr Presentation’s candidature. They convened a meeting on the other day to discuss the future course of action. But, the district party leadership is yet to intervene in the matter.
Meanwhile, party sources admit that anti anti-incumbency factor will affect the prospects of Mr Presentation. “The chances of the MLA who is already facing opposition from a section of voters will be dampened if rebels are in the fray. Mr Leenus is a popular leader who also has the support of the church,” sources said.
