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The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has got its first-ever woman president, actress Shwetha Menon, after a closely contested race against actor and BJP leader Devan. Alongside Shweta, actress Kukku Parameswaran has been chosen as the general secretary, while actress Ansiba Hassan has returned to the executive committee as joint secretary, marking three women in key leadership roles. Additionally, Jayan Cherthala and Lakshmi Priya were elected as vice presidents, and Unni Shivpal has been appointed treasurer
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This landmark moment comes after the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry. The report led to several cases of sexual misconduct being filed against prominent figures. Actor Baburaj was forced to withdraw from AMMA elections due to sexual assault allegations, while veteran Jagadish also stepped away from the presidential race. The election was held after the Hema Committee findings prompted the mass resignation of the previous executive body.
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According to The New Indian Express, out of AMMA’s 504 members, only 298 turned up to cast their votes at the polling station in Kochi. Several high-profile stars, including Prithviraj Sukumaran, Manju Warrier, and Indrajith, were notably absent.
Post her win, Shwetha Menon told OnManorama, “I am feeling very happy about this win. I still need the support of Mohanlal, Mammootty, and Suresh Gopi as they are the patrons.”
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Actor Devan, who lost the election to Shwetha congratulated her and said, “Shwetha deserves this post. She fought and won the contest. I am very happy for her.”
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