Heading towards a split? Discord brewing within Kerala Congress (Mani) group

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Opposing voices are surfacing from Kerala Congress (Mani) group over discussions of ending alliance with the Left Democratic Front. The current difference within leadership comes amidst Jose K Mani faction's move to leave LDF and return to the UDF.

It is reported that AICC President Sonia Gandhi directly called Jose K Mani and rolled the red carpet for him to make a return. There are also reports that Jose K Mani has put forward a condition expressing his desire to contest from Pala. The Congress may be ready to make concessions, and will also persuade Mani C Kappan.

In the backdrop of strong news of front change, Minister Roshy Augustine and Pramod Narayanan MLA have clarified their stance. Both said on Facebook that they will remain with LDF. The minister shared the post with a picture of Left leaders with the caption ‘Will continue’. This post gave a sneak peek into the discord within the party over changing alliances.

Earlier, when the topic came to discussion, Jose K Mani denied such rumours, saying that politics does not change overnight and his party was satisfied with LDF. Meanwhile, Minister Roshy Augustine responded to the media in harsh language. "These rumours have no relevance. Jose K. Mani's stance is in his Facebook post. MLAs are attending the meetings. Why are such rumours being spread despite Jose clarifying?” asked Roshy Augustine.

Although it is shrouded in ambiguity, a section of the party is reiterating its commitment to the LDF. This is expected to pave the way for major discussions within the Kerala Congress in the coming days.