Ex-MLA Karat Razak cuts CPM ties, returns to IUML

Kozhikode: Former Koduvally MLA Karat Razak ended his decade-long association with CPM and returned to IUML, in a move that could influence electoral dynamics in Koduvally constituency ahead of assembly polls.Razak had quit IUML ahead of the elections in 2016 and went on to wrest Koduvally seat for LDF. He was fielded again as an LDF-backed candidate in 2021 but lost to IUML's MK Muneer. His return is now seen as a morale boost for UDF, which has fielded Muslim Youth League state president P K Firos in the constituency.Koduvally, traditionally an IUML stronghold, went in favour of LDF only twice, once in 2006 and next in 2016. The CPM-led front is continuing its earlier strategy this time too by fielding Left-backed independent candidate Saleem Madavoor.Razak formally rejoined IUML at the Panakkad residence of state party president Panakkad Sadikali Shihab Thangal, who handed over his party membership slip. Describing the move as a homecoming, Razak said he was happy to return to his parent party.He alleged that he was sidelined within LDF and claimed that certain leaders of the front had worked against him during the 2021 elections, a situation that persisted even afterwards. Razak also criticized PWD minister P A Mohamed Riyas, accusing him of stalling several development projects in the constituency.Currently serving as the chairman of Kerala Madrassa Teachers Welfare Fund Board, Razak said he would step down from the post following his return to IUML.Meanwhile, IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty said the political momentum in Kerala was shifting in favour of UDF. He claimed that the steady flow of leaders joining the front reflected growing dissatisfaction within LDF and predicted significant electoral gains for UDF, particularly in Kozhikode.