High command lacking ‘power’ over leaders, bows before Sudhakaran? Konni is next headache

NEW DELHI: Days long discussions…who would contest in Kannur..? K Sudhakaran MP insisted that the seat be given to him, despite the high command’s stand that MPs should not contest assembly elections. Ignoring this decision, Sudhakaran’s pressure tactics--especially his threat to contest as an independent--appear to have worked, with the leadership now preparing to declare him as the candidate. This has raised questions about how much authority the high command actually holds over senior leaders.

This is not the first time the high command has yielded to such pressure. However, for the UDF, this election is crucial as it aims to counter the ruling LDF, which is seeking another term in power. Some leaders have expressed concern that early signs of disunity could significantly affect the party’s electoral prospects.

Following the decision to give Sudhakaran the Kannur seat, Adoor Prakash also wants to contest in Konni, creating a fresh ‘headache’ for the party. Senior leaders A K Antony and Ramesh Chennithala reportedly intervened at the last minute, pushing for Sudhakaran’s candidature in Kannur and informing leaders including Rahul Gandhi.

Chennithala warned the leadership that if Sudhakaran resigned and contested independently, it could have serious repercussions and hurt the UDF’s chances in Kerala. This warning is believed to have prompted the high command to change its stance and ultimately yield to Sudhakaran’s demands.