Political Rift: Akhil Marar Breaks from Twenty20 Over Strategic Disagreements
Former candidate Akhil Marar has officially exited the Twenty20 party following a public dispute with leader Sabu M. Jacob regarding candidate placement and campaign logistics. The actor-director alleged he was sidelined in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Internal Discord Surfaces Following 2026 Kerala Assembly Polls
Actor and filmmaker Akhil Marar has formally terminated his association with the Kitex Group-backed Twenty20 party. Speaking at an event in Thrikkakara on Tuesday, Marar detailed his dissatisfaction with the party leadership, specifically targeting president Sabu M. Jacob. The director claimed that the organization's approach to candidate selection lacked transparency and consistency during the recent election cycle.
Candidate Deployment and Financial Claims
Marar asserted that the party leadership repeatedly shifted his designated constituency before the vote. According to his account, he was initially promised the Kottarakara seat and subsequently Tripunithura. However, he was ultimately positioned to contest in Thrikkakara, a region he describes as a lost cause for the party. Marar also discussed the financial strain of the race, stating he sold a motorcycle valued at ₹20 lakh for half that amount to secure immediate campaign funds, though he acknowledged that the party later reimbursed those specific costs.
Accusations of post-election silence also formed a core part of Marar's exit. He alleged that Mr. Jacob became entirely unresponsive once the polling process concluded.
Party Leadership Dismisses Grievances
Sabu M. Jacob has refuted the allegations, labeling them without merit. The party president maintained that the organization provided full financial coverage for every candidate's campaign expenses. Addressing the seat allocation dispute, Jacob clarified the internal process:
- Marar did express interest in Kottarakkara and Tripunithura.
- The leadership offered him the Thrikkakara seat as the final option.
- Marar accepted the nomination after being informed he could decline the opportunity without prejudice.
The parting of ways highlights growing friction within the corporate-backed political entity as it navigates the fallout of its 2026 electoral performances.
Source: The Hindu — Cities
