Kozhikode: The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has released its candidate list for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, naming 25 candidates and introducing key تغييرات, including the exclusion of senior leader M. K. Muneer.
The list was announced by Panakkad Sadiqali Shihab Thangal, marking a significant reshuffle within the party’s ranks.
Key Highlights
- P. K. Kunhalikutty will contest from Malappuram, shifting from his previous constituency
- Senior leader M. K. Muneer has been excluded from the list
- K. M. Shaji will contest from Vengara, a party stronghold
- The party has retained 9 sitting MLAs while introducing new faces and യുവ നേതാക്കൾ
Women Candidates for the First Time
In a notable move, IUML has fielded two women candidates:
- Fathima Thahliya – Perambra
- Jayanthi Rajan – Koothuparamba
This marks a historic step for the party in improving women’s representation.
Additional Announcements Pending
The party said candidates for Chelakkara and one among Punalur or Chadayamangalam will be announced soon.
Full List Snapshot (Key Seats)
- A K M Ashraf – Manjeshwaram
- Kallatra Mahin Haji – Kasaragod
- Karim Cheleri – Azhikode
- Faisal Babu – Kozhikode South
- P K Firoz – Koduvally
- T P Ashraf Ali – Kondotty
- P K Basheer – Eranad
- Najeeb Kanthapuram – Perinthalmanna
- Manjalamkuzhi Ali – Mankada
- T V Ibrahim – Vallikkunnu
- Kurukkoli Moideen – Tirur
- Abid Hussain Thangal – Kottakkal
- N Samsudheen – Mannarkkad
- V E Abdul Gafoor – Kalamassery
Political Significance
The IUML’s candidate list reflects a mix of experience and renewal, with leadership changes and broader representation. The reshuffle is expected to influence electoral dynamics, especially in Malabar districts where the party holds strong support.
