THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The realization that M B Rajesh, who served as a two-time Lok Sabha MP and an assembly speaker, would be an asset to the government prompted the CPM leadership to make a reshuffle and include him in the cabinet. The CPM secretariat evaluated that the one who replaces state secretary M V Govindan should be a mature parliamentarian.

The position that M V Govindan’s resignation should be compensated through the speaker’s post turned out to be favourable for A N Shamseer, who is the state committee from Kannur. Although central committee member K K Shailaja hails from the district, the CPM thought that there should be no change in the position that ex-ministers should be exempted. Also, as first-time MLAs came to the cabinet, it was evaluated that Shamseer, a second-time MLA, should be considered at least now. Shamseer is a close follower of Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, who had recently stepped down as secretary due to ill health. Kodiyeri's opinion was also crucial in the decision.

With Rajesh’s arrival, the Pinarayi cabinet now consists of three members, who has served as MPs. P Rajeev and K N Balagopal are the others. Both of them are members of the CPM state secretariat. Rajeev, who has performed impressively in the parliament, is now seen raising arguments of the ruling party in the assembly. Also, Rajesh is likely to add to the youthful spirit of the cabinet.

A few weeks back, CPM leaders had assessed that the activities of the ministers need further improvisation. Meanwhile, M V Govindan shifted to the organizational leadership unexpectedly. In such a scenario, CPM took care not to lose its seriousness while carrying out the necessary reshuffle. Without much stress, it was made possible through M B Rajesh.