New Delhi | Veteran CPI(M) leader Prakash Karat on Saturday expressed confidence that the Left Democratic Front (LDF) would retain power in Kerala, saying early reports from the polling process indicated a favourable outcome for the alliance

Asked about the recently held assembly polls in the state, Karat expressed optimism.

"Kerala polling has been over, and all the reports indicate that the LDF has done well, and we expect the LDF government to come back," Karat told PTI at the sidelines of an event here.

Polling for the single-phase Kerala Legislative Assembly election was held on April 9 after an intense and closely fought campaign between the CPI(M)-led LDF and the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), with both sides engaging in a high-decibel contest across the state.

The LDF is seeking a third consecutive term in office - a rare feat in Kerala's political landscape, which has traditionally seen power alternate between the LDF and the UDF. The election also saw the Bharatiya Janata Party stepping up efforts to expand its presence, adding a triangular edge to the contest.