"Wait for results; CM discussions now will create a bad impression": Muraleedharan opens up

Congress leader and UDF candidate for Vattiyoorkavu, K. Muraleedharan, stated that discussing the Chief Ministerial candidate before the assembly election results are out would create a negative impression of the party among the public. He made these remarks during an interview on Kaumudy TV's Straight Line program.

Muraleedharan emphasised that the Congress should avoid any actions that might make voters second-guess their decision. He noted that the final choice for Chief Minister must follow established party procedures rather than premature public debate.

"Every leader within the Congress party has their own merits," Muraleedharan said. "Praising one individual should not come at the expense of belittling others. All three leaders currently being considered for the post are highly qualified." He added that he would voice his personal opinion at the appropriate forum once the results are declared.

He further stressed the importance of unity and stability, stating:

"The leader should be chosen through consensus, not through infighting. The decision must be made in a way that avoids internal friction. Furthermore, there should be no 'term-sharing' conditions; one person should serve as Chief Minister for the full five-year term for the people to truly see the benefits of governance."

Warning against complacency, Muraleedharan remarked that while Congress is poised to reclaim its lead in the assembly, a return to past mistakes would be fatal. "If the party cannot secure a victory given such a favorable opportunity, it will face a massive setback," he cautioned, concluding that the state has endured "one-man rule" for the last ten years.