The Congress fears that yielding to the IUML may simply hand the BJP fresh political ammunition. The BJP has repeatedly targeted the Congress over alleged appeasement politics.
New Delhi:
The identity of Kerala’s next Chief Minister may be revealed by Tuesday evening, according to sources within the Congress. The swearing-in ceremony may even take place by May 15.
The schedule, however, does not capture the deadlock that continues over the leadership selection.
The party’s central observers Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik have reportedly been informed that KC Venugopal — who has the backing of the central leadership — is preferred by 47 of the party’s 63 MLAs. In this scenario, VD Satheesan, the leader of the Congress Legislature Party who enjoys considerable public backing, is viewed as the principal rival.
The Congress high command’s decision has become more complicated because UDF ally Indian Union Muslim League has thrown its weight behind Satheesan. The party worries that conceding to the IUML now may offer the BJP another opportunity to attack the Congress. The BJP has consistently accused the Congress of minority appeasement.
The internal power struggle has grown tougher with Satheesan reportedly stiffening his position. Sources close to him stated that the 61-year-old has clearly conveyed to the leadership that he is unwilling to settle for anything short of the Chief Minister’s position.
If Satheesan declines to participate in a Venugopal-led cabinet, the difficulties before Venugopal could intensify sharply. Sources added that attempts to convince Satheesan and evolve a broader consensus are presently underway.
Choosing Satheesan for the top office could also create internal complications, with nearly five MLAs opposing him, sources indicated.
There are additional drawbacks linked to selecting Satheesan.
Sources noted that the Legislative Party chief does not possess prior administrative experience — unlike Venugopal, who has previously served as a minister both in Kerala and at the Centre.
As posters demanding Satheesan’s elevation continue appearing across the state, a faction within the Congress believes the leader is trying to pressure the party despite not having enough support among legislators. During a meeting on Saturday with the three contenders for the top position, Rahul Gandhi had instructed everyone to end factional activity and avoid public shows of strength. Though Gandhi did not mention anyone specifically, sources said the remark was widely interpreted as aimed at Satheesan.
If Venugopal, currently a Lok Sabha MP, becomes Chief Minister, bypolls would need to be conducted within six months for one assembly constituency and one Lok Sabha constituency in Kerala.
At the national level, the Congress would additionally need to appoint a new General Secretary (Organization) to succeed Venugopal.
The person who could ultimately benefit from this contest may be Ramesh Chennithala, with several MLAs who picked Venugopal as their first preference reportedly naming Chennithala as their backup option.