In what could signify a significant shift in the political dynamics of the Kollam Corporation since its formation in 2000, the UDF has taken the lead as counting continues, dealing a major setback to the LDF, which has ruled the civic body for over 25 years.

In the 56-member Kollam Corporation council, the UDF has gained a clear edge over the LDF, winning 15 seats as per the latest available data at 11.20 am. The LDF has suffered significant losses, managing to secure just 10 seats so far. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has won eight seats.

In a further setback for the Left, sitting mayor and CPI leader Honey Benjamin lost to the UDF candidate by 355 votes, underlining the changing political dynamics in what has long been considered an LDF stronghold.

In the 2020 local body elections, the LDF had won 39 of the 55 wards, with the CPM emerging as the largest party by securing 29 seats, followed by the CPI with 10. 

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The UDF had then been reduced to just nine seats, with the Indian National Congress winning six and the RSP three. The BJP had won six seats in that election, equalling the Congress tally.

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