K C Venugopal is the mastermind behind UDF’s win; V D Satheesan is good opposition leader, says Vellappally Natesan

ALAPPUZHA: SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan said K C Venugopal was the mastermind behind the UDF’s victory in the Kerala Assembly elections. He added that Venugopal is a leader capable of exerting influence across India and has played a key role in creating many MLAs in Kerala. He also said that V D Satheesan is an excellent opposition leader.

‘I don’t know who will become the chief minister. Three leaders are behind it. Venugopal has the support of the largest number of MLAs. Ramesh Chennithala has the most administrative experience. There is also a secret backing from the Muslim League to make Satheesan the chief minister. Satheesan was a very good opposition leader.

Venugopal is a leader who can decide how the Congress should move forward in India. His opinions carry great weight within the party. He is capable of influencing politics at the national level and can govern Kerala from the Centre. However, I don’t think he will come to Kerala just to ‘graze on grass’ when there are ‘sugarcane fields’ elsewhere in India. Most MLAs and MPs are with him. He is the architect of the election victory,’ he said.

Vellappally also praised Chennithala. ‘He is a leader with long political experience and has the ability to carry everyone along. Despite many of his juniors rising to higher positions, he has remained patient and accepted others getting power. However, Satheesan performed well as the opposition leader,’ he said.

He also strongly rejected claims that he was responsible for the defeat of the Pinarayi government, saying such claims are made only by anti-Pinarayi elements. Those who wish to tarnish my community will say such things. No party can weaken SNDP Yogam. Many have tried to split it. Such remarks come from ill intentions. My stand will not change,’ added Vellappally.