The upcoming local body elections in Kollam district are shaping up as a crucial test for all political fronts ahead of the State elections. The Left Democratic Front (LDF) wants a strong win to prove it has public support and to wipe away any anti-incumbency doubts. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) sees this as a key chance to unite its ranks and use anti-government feelings to regain influence. Meanwhile, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) hopes to convert its recent gains into bigger wins. Kollam has been a stronghold of the LDF, with over 20 years of control in the Kollam Corporation and district panchayat. The UDF’s hold weakened after setbacks in 2020, putting pressure on them to bounce back in municipal and rural areas. The NDA has grown, tripling its seats in the Corporation and becoming an important player in urban pockets. Campaign strategies show the LDF focusing on development and welfare achievements. The CPI(M) has replaced all sitting councilors to fight anti-incumbency, while the CPI keeps experienced members. The UDF is running a united and aggressive campaign, sharing seats with allies like the RSP to strengthen their bid. The NDA fields strong candidates and highlights public anger over civic issues and corruption to position itself as a new choice. Key factors will decide the results: the long LDF rule risking anti-incumbency backlash, the RSP's vote consolidation helping UDF, and the public’s view of the State government’s performance, including cutbacks to plan funds and management of cashew and coir industries. These will shape the political future in Kollam and set the tone for the State elections.