Thrissur is set for a fierce battle in upcoming local elections. The Thrissur Corporation has grown from 55 to 56 divisions, and the mayor’s post is reserved for women this time. For five years, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) led the Corporation with Mayor M.K. Varghese, a Congress rebel. In 2020, BJP won six seats, while LDF and United Democratic Front (UDF) each took 24 seats. Mr. Varghese, the lone independent, became the kingmaker. Though he promised to quit after two years, he completed the full term. Now, he refuses to contest or support LDF, putting the Left front at a disadvantage. LDF focuses on city development projects worth ₹1,500 crore. Mayor Varghese said, “The city has never seen such growth before. Thrissur entered UNESCO’s global network of Learning Cities. The endless achievements include state-of-the-art infrastructure, development of Sakthan Nagar, and a modern waste management system.” The UDF aims to win over 35 seats. Former Mayor Rajan J. Pallan criticized LDF rule. He said, “Ten years of the LDF misrule have left the city gasping — pothole-ridden roads, erratic water supply, a collapsed waste management system, and punishing taxes. People are tired of excuses; they want real governance back.” BJP hopes to ride on Union Minister Suresh Gopi’s strong performance in the last Lok Sabha polls. BJP state vice-president K.K. Aneesh Kumar said, “Mr. Gopi’s performance in the Lok Sabha polls changed the dynamics in Thrissur — he secured a majority in 35 divisions of the Corporation. We are zeroing in on those pockets of strength. With a three-cornered contest certain, even 27 to 28 seats will be enough for us to take control of the Corporation.” However, some say the “Suresh Gopi effect” may not help much locally. Both LDF and UDF argue his popularity has faded and accuse BJP of vote manipulation. Still, BJP continues outreach efforts through campaigns like Kalunku Samvadam and SG Coffee Times. The Christian vote remains key. UDF counts it loyal, but BJP claims many now support them. Delimitation has caused unrest, with BJP and CPI complaining about how new divisions were drawn. Every seat looks like a battleground this election.