Kochi, February 19 – In a significant political development ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections, veteran Congress leader K. Babu announced on Thursday his decision to withdraw from electoral politics, bringing to a close a long and eventful career in legislative affairs.
The six-time MLA from Tripunithura said he had informed his senior party leaders of his decision, even as the Congress leadership had reportedly asked him to contest again from the constituency he had represented for six terms.
"I have made my decision, and I have informed all my senior party leaders that I will no longer be involved in electoral politics," Babu said.
The 74-year-old, known for his organizational skills, was one of the closest confidants of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.
He served as the Excise Minister in the Chandy-led government from 2011 to 2016, a period that was later overshadowed by the bar license "scam" controversy.
The allegations, raised by the CPI(M)-led opposition, put Babu under intense political pressure both inside and outside the Assembly.
From 2016 onwards, he faced investigations by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, marking a turbulent phase in his public life.
The prolonged investigation, coupled with health concerns, took a personal toll.
Despite the setbacks, Babu chose to re-enter the electoral fray in 2021, stating that he wished to face the electorate and clear his name.
In a closely contested election, he reclaimed the Tripunithura seat by defeating CPI(M) leader M. Swaraj, who had unseated him in 2016.
His decision to retire now opens up a crucial Congress stronghold in the Ernakulam district, at a time when candidate selection is under intense scrutiny.
With decades of legislative experience and deep roots in Tripunithura, Babu's departure marks the end of an era in the constituency's political landscape, and signals a generational shift within the party as it prepares for the upcoming electoral battle.
