Big suspense over Thiruvananthapuram Mayor post; BJP leadership wary of Vizhinjam dilemma

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suspense continues over the new mayor of Thiruvananthapuram, as the BJP leaders are still formulating the list to zero in on a suitable face. The final name will be announced after consultations in the state and with the approval of the central government. The opinion of the RSS will also be taken into account. The names of R Sreelekha, V V Rajesh and Karamana Ajith are being actively considered.

As LDF and UDF made it clear that they would prefer to sit in opposition, BJP is free of worries. BJP candidates will win the mayoral and deputy mayoral elections. The other two fronts are likely to field their own candidates. Since there is no clear majority, the stance of independents will be vital. The BJP is careful to tread a fine line and not provoke the opposition for fear of an alliance between both fronts.

The Vizhinjam ward elections are in January. In Vizhinjam, BJP has no influence, and the opposition candidate is likely to win. In such a case, the opposition together will have 51 members, including independents. If there is no majority in the council, the agendas brought by the BJP will not be passed. Other fronts will be able to come together and demand a vote against the agendas. The experience of the opposition councillors will likely cause headaches for the BJP. The LDF leadership is led by five senior leaders, including the former mayor, deputy mayor and three standing committee chairmen.