Jose K. Mani
| Photo Credit: SHIV KUMAR PUSHPAKAR
Kerala Congress (M) chairman Jose K. Mani on Thursday (January 22, 2026) visited Kochi Bishop Antony Kattiparambil at the headquarters of the Diocese of Cochin at Fort Kochi, triggering political speculation in the wake of alleged disputes within the party over a possible shift to the United Democratic Front (UDF).
Mr. Mani, however, described the visit as “private” and dismissed reports linking it to politics.
Asked whether the meeting was connected to the reported internal dispute over switching fronts, he said it was merely a “tale woven and celebrated by the media.” He added that he had “expected such speculation to have ended on January 14” and, with a touch of sarcasm, “thanked” the media for considering KC(M) among political heavyweights.
On January 14, Mr. Mani had sought to quell speculation about a potential return to the UDF, stating that it was a “book that has not been opened,” while reaffirming his loyalty to the Left Democratic Front (LDF).
No politics discussed: Bishop
Emerging from the meeting, Bishop Kattiparambil also claimed that no political matters were discussed. While acknowledging that the Church has “concerns” with the party’s stance, the bishop said he felt it inappropriate to raise them during the meeting.
Asked whether Mr. Mani had assured the Church of resolving its concerns, Bishop Kattiparambil noted that such a response was only natural. He, however, emphasised that the meeting was “purely casual.”
Despite both parties insisting the meeting was not political, it nevertheless fuelled speculation in the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the KC(M)’s possible switch to the UDF. The visit was seen as an attempt by Mr. Mani to reassure the Church about the political reasoning behind remaining within the LDF fold.
Reportedly, criticism had surfaced at the party’s Kottayam district committee meeting over “missing the opportunity” to move to the UDF.
Published – January 22, 2026 03:14 pm IST
