In a significant move hinting at a major generational shift, Kerala's Leader of the Opposition, V D Satheesan, has declared that the Congress party will prioritize youth and women in candidate selection for the upcoming assembly elections. This initiative, he stated, aligns directly with the vision of the party's national leadership.
A Directive from the Top: 50% Representation for Youth and Women
Satheesan revealed that the push for greater inclusion comes from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. "Rahul Gandhi has told us to give 50% representation to youth and women in organizational roles and elections. We will implement this," the opposition leader asserted. He clarified that this policy does not imply sidelining experienced veterans but aims to create a balanced mix. "It doesn't mean everyone from the older generation should step aside. The new generation should also have opportunities," he explained, adding that no one would be excluded, and senior leaders' counsel would continue to be valued.
Satheesan Slams CM's "Mockery" Over Mattathur Panchayat Issue
Shifting focus to state politics, Satheesan launched a sharp critique against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He accused the CM of indulging in mockery despite electoral setbacks. The opposition leader referenced the recent controversy in Mattathur grama panchayat, where two rebel candidates won. "The CM talks about Mattathur because he has gained nothing," Satheesan claimed.
He detailed that when an attempt was made to appoint one rebel as the CPM panchayat president, other members supported a different rebel, defying the party's decision. "This is against the party's decision. They did not join BJP. The CM wishes they would join BJP," he alleged. Satheesan contrasted this with Congress's action, stating his party took disciplinary measures against members for accepting support against the party line, not for joining the BJP. He concluded, "The CM wants to increase BJP's numbers."
Allegations on Sabarimala Scam Meet & Media Intimidation
Satheesan also addressed other controversies, targeting CPM state secretary M V Govindan for denying that the Chief Minister met Sabarimala gold scam accused Unnikrishnan Potti. "Pictures of the CM meeting Potti have been released," he countered.
Further, he alleged a pattern of intimidation against critics, citing the case of journalist 'Crime' Nandakumar. "Journalist 'Crime' Nandakumar was being arrested from his home every day for criticizing the CM. It stopped only after the court intervened," Satheesan stated. He claimed that despite a relentless campaign against him through about seven YouTube channels and the CPM issuing numerous 'cards' (likely attack pamphlets), the UDF emerged victorious in the recent polls. He framed the situation as an attempt to stifle criticism, saying, "It's like saying don't talk about Poland, don't say anything about Pinarayi Vijayan."
The announcements and allegations set a clear tone for the Congress party's strategy and its aggressive stance against the ruling LDF government as Kerala gears up for the next electoral battle.
