Actor-director Akhil Marar has officially cut ties with the Twenty20 political party, accusing president Sabu M. Jacob of failing to honor electoral commitments for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
- Actor Akhil Marar has resigned from the Kitex-backed Twenty20 party.
- Marar alleges he was misled regarding his constituency for the 2026 elections.
- Party chief Sabu M. Jacob has dismissed the allegations as baseless.
In a significant political development in Kerala, actor-director Akhil Marar has severed all ties with the political outfit Twenty20. The move comes following a disappointing performance in the 2026 Assembly elections, with Marar levelling serious allegations against the party's president, Sabu M. Jacob.
Speaking to reporters in Thrikkakara, Marar expressed his deep resentment over what he described as a betrayal of trust. He claimed that the party leadership initially promised him the Kottarakara seat, then shifted the promise to Tripunithura, before ultimately fielding him in Thrikkakara—a constituency where the party had minimal chances of success. Marar also highlighted his personal financial sacrifice, noting he sold his ₹20 lakh motorcycle for just ₹10 lakh to fund his campaign.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this internal rift highlights the growing friction between celebrity candidates and corporate-backed political entities. As non-traditional political parties attempt to gain ground in Kerala, the management of high-profile personalities becomes a critical litmus test for their organizational stability.
The collision between individual political aspirations and party strategic maneuvering often leads to public fractures that damage brand credibility.
Responding to the accusations, Sabu M. Jacob has categorically denied any wrongdoing. Jacob maintained that the party provided full financial support for every candidate's campaign. He further clarified that while Marar had expressed interest in Kottarakkara and Tripunithura, the actor was given the freedom to choose his constituency and ultimately opted for Thrikkakara.
Historical Background
Twenty20 is a political organization backed by the Kitex Group, aiming to provide an alternative to the established political landscape in Kerala. While the party has gained attention for its organized structure, the recent fallout with a prominent figure like Akhil Marar poses new challenges to its public image.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main reason for Akhil Marar's exit?
Marar claims the party failed to honor promises regarding the constituency he would contest from.
2. How did Sabu M. Jacob respond to the allegations?
Sabu Jacob refuted the claims, stating the party fully funded the campaigns and that Marar chose his seat voluntarily.