Rahul to play decisive role in CM selection, leaders in Delhi; controversy over leak of MLA list

NEW DELHI/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The final round of discussions in New Delhi today is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the next Chief Minister of Kerala, with Rahul Gandhi’s stand likely to be decisive. If a consensus is reached, the Congress leadership may announce the Chief Minister today itself. There are also discussions about holding the swearing-in ceremony on Monday. Although K. C. Venugopal remains hopeful due to his close relationship with Rahul Gandhi and the support of many MLAs, public sentiment in Kerala is said to be a major challenge for him.

On Friday morning, party observers Mukul Wasnik and Ajay Maken submitted their report at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Rajaji Marg in Delhi. Deepa Dasmunsi was also present. K. C. Venugopal stayed away from the discussions. Apart from the opinions of legislators, the observers’ report also included the political situation in Kerala and the views of alliance partners. Reports suggest that a majority of Congress MLAs supported K. C. Venugopal. At the same time, alliance partners reportedly argued in favour of V. D. Satheesan during the discussions.

Despite disciplinary action by the DCC against four workers who held a march in support of Satheesan in Idukki, protests were again held yesterday in Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kannur districts. The AICC leadership is reportedly unhappy with these demonstrations. Meanwhile, Ramesh Chennithala has already made it clear that he would accept the high command’s decision.

Satheesan also drew attention with a Facebook post yesterday asking party leaders and workers not to do anything that could create difficulties for the party or the UDF during the process of selecting the legislature party leader. At the same time, the leak of papers containing the names of MLAs supporting different leaders from the observers’ report, which was captured on camera, has reportedly embarrassed the party leadership.

Key meeting today at 10 am
A crucial meeting will be held at 10 am today at Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence in Delhi. V. D. Satheesan, Sunny Joseph and Ramesh Chennithala reached Delhi late last night.
K. C. Venugopal, Deepa Dasmunsi, Mukul Wasnik and Ajay Maken will also attend the discussions. Meetings will be held both individually and collectively. Rahul Gandhi may join the final phase of talks. Kharge has also reportedly consulted senior leaders, including A. K. Antony.

Possible scenarios
1. If K. C. Venugopal firmly sticks to his claim for the post, the leadership may agree to his demand. If he steps back, the other two leaders will be considered. In that case, Venugopal’s opinion on the final choice will become important.
2. If Venugopal stays out of the race and the leadership considers public sentiment and the views of alliance partners, V. D. Satheesan could emerge as the top choice. Chennithala may then be given an important cabinet portfolio.
3. If seniority and political experience are given priority, Ramesh Chennithala could become Chief Minister. In that case, Satheesan may be offered the Deputy Chief Minister’s post along with another key department.