Under fire for nepotism, Benny Thomas resigns from Sunny Joseph's cabinet staff

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Benny Thomas, the Additional Private Secretary to Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph, stepped down from his position on Sunday following intense allegations of nepotism. Benny Thomas, who is married to the Minister's sister, submitted his resignation letter directly to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan.

The resignation follows days of escalating political pressure. Minister Sunny Joseph had initially defended the appointment, asserting that employing a relative did not constitute a breach of ethics or legal regulations. The decision to step down was ultimately forced by growing discontent within the Minister's own party, coupled with aggressive opposition campaigning that sought to weaponise the controversy ahead of upcoming political sessions.

Defending the controversial appointment prior to the resignation, Minister Sunny Joseph maintained that Benny Thomas was selected strictly on merit rather than family ties. According to the Minister, the District Congress Committee (DCC) had formally recommended Benny Thomas, citing his track record as an exemplary public worker. Benny had also managed the Minister's recent election campaign as his chief agent.

Minister Sunny Joseph further argued that the appointment lacked any legal barriers and was executed with complete transparency. He noted that he had openly introduced Benny as his brother-in-law to colleagues and staff, contrasting his transparency with political practices where individuals are covertly placed on secondary payrolls. Minister concluded his defence by pointing out that the appointment involved his brother-in-law, rather than an immediate sibling, a distinction he believed absolved him of the nepotism charges.