1942 – 2020

C. Ahmed Kunhi was born and raised in Manjeshwar, where he made history as the first president of Zilla Panchayat from the Beary community following the enactment of the Panchayat Act nationwide. Born in 1942 to Haji Abdul Khader and Aisha in Pandyal, Manjeshwar Beach Road, he received his education in the village before working alongside his father in a shop in Sakleshpur. Returning home, he dedicated himself to social service in the village.

Manjeshwar was predominantly a stronghold of the Left, with other political parties having minimal presence. Despite this, Ahmed Kunhi consistently led efforts in social service and advocating for the welfare of the poor. His pivotal role in building the Indian Union Muslim League in Manjeshwar cannot be overstated. Through his tireless efforts, he played a significant role in securing victories for the Muslim League in Manjeshwar.

Born and raised in humble beginnings, he steadily carved his path in politics.

Serving as a member, vice-president, and president of the Manjeshwar Gram Panchayat from 1995 to 2000, he tirelessly labored for the district’s development. Later, as the president of the Kasaragod Zilla Panchayat with the support of the UDF, he continued his efforts to uplift the region.

Additionally, he contributed as a member of the Paloli Muhammad Kutty Commission, appointed by the Kerala State Government to address the issues facing minorities.

His dedication to the cause was further evident in his roles as the Manjeshwar Mandal President of the Muslim League, as well as his membership in the Kasaragod District Muslim League Executive Committee and the State Committee.

He was proficient in multiple languages including Beary, Malayalam, Kannada, Tulu, Konkani, Urdu, and English. Despite being a seasoned politician, he served the people with fairness and without any bias or discrimination. Notably, he maintained a reputation for being incorruptible throughout his political career.

Despite his long tenure in politics, he did not amass personal wealth and lived in a rented house. Recognizing his selfless service, leaders and supporters of the Muslim League constructed a house for him.

Although he was offered electoral tickets twice by the Muslim League to contest from the Manjeshwar Vidhan Sabha constituency, he humbly declined, choosing instead to work diligently for the victory of the party’s official candidates. Despite briefly aligning himself with other political parties like the CPIM and the Welfare Party of India, he ultimately returned to the Muslim League.

In addition to his political engagements, he ran a wood depot in Hosangadi and a grocery store near his residence. He also sold Ayurvedic medicine from the same shop.

He passed away on May 22, 2020, at the age of 78, due to age-related ailments, leaving behind his wife Amina and a son.