CM announcement enters final suspense: Rahul summons KC for crucial last-minute meeting

NEW DELHI: Will the announcement of Kerala’s chief minister be delayed again? An uncertainty has emerged after a crucial meeting was held between K C Venugopal and Rahul Gandhi early Thursday morning at the latter’s residence. Rahul summoned Venugopal in the morning. The reason for the meeting remains unclear. KC left his residence immediately after receiving the call, and the discussion lasted for more than an hour. Political circles say it could have been a final attempt by Rahul Gandhi to persuade Venugopal.

Meantime, Congress general secretary in charge of Kerala Deepa Dasmunsi and senior leader Mukul Wasnik continue to remain in Delhi and have not yet left for Kerala. Congress sources had indicated yesterday that all discussions had concluded and that Deepa Dasmunsi would soon leave for Kerala. However, the trip was cancelled at the last moment.

Reports say the leaders may travel to Kerala today on a chartered flight. There is still no clarity on whether K C Venugopal will accompany them. Since the observers and Deepa Dasmunsi are arriving late, the Congress Legislature Party meeting is also likely to be delayed. The meeting has been scheduled for 1 pm, and earlier reports had suggested that the chief minister announcement could be made there.

In the meantime, CM contender V D Satheesan has left for Thiruvananthapuram by road. His daughter Unnimaya and niece Ammu are accompanying him. Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala is currently at his residence in Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram.

Although there is still no clear indication about who will become the chief minister, supporters of KC, RC and VD camps remain highly enthusiastic. The KC camp is confident about the backing of MLAs, while the VD faction believes the final round of discussions has worked in his favour, backing support from alliance partners and public sentiment. However, the Chennithala camp, meanwhile, is pinning its hopes on Sonia Gandhi.