IUML Voices Strong Displeasure Over Congress's Public Chief Minister Post Discussions
In a significant development within the United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has expressed strong disapproval over public discussions within the Congress party regarding the chief minister's post. The criticism comes as a rare public rebuke from the key UDF constituent toward the leading party in the coalition.
Public Squabbles Disregard Sacrifices of UDF Activists
IUML state general secretary PMA Salam voiced his concerns, stating that such open disagreements among Congress leaders disregard the sacrifices made by lakhs of UDF activists during election campaigns conducted in scorching summer heat. "It will damage the morale of cadres," Salam emphasized, highlighting the potential negative impact on party workers.
Salam stressed that the election results must first be announced and the front must secure a majority before finalizing any chief ministerial candidate. While acknowledging that UDF constituents have the freedom to conduct internal discussions, particularly as the front is expected to win elections, he maintained that "it is improper to make those discussions public."
IUML's Firm Position on Premature Discussions
The IUML leader made it clear that his party strongly believes public debates about leadership positions are not appropriate at this stage. "IUML strongly believes that it is not the right thing," he stated unequivocally. Salam warned that such public disagreements could significantly demoralize party workers and urged leaders to refrain from such actions.
When questioned about whether IUML would approach the Congress high command to end these public debates, Salam indicated that raising the issue through the media itself was sufficient, suggesting the party does not intend to escalate the matter through formal channels at this time.
Historical Precedents and Current Context
Responding to a specific question about whether someone who has not contested in assembly elections could become chief minister, Salam pointed to historical precedent by citing the case of C Achuta Menon. However, he clarified that he was not justifying anything and maintained that such discussions were premature regardless of historical examples.
Regarding the visit of Wandoor MLA A P Anilkumar to Panakkad, which has been widely interpreted as an attempt to secure support for AICC general secretary K C Venugopal, Salam downplayed the significance, stating that "it is normal for leaders from Malappuram and elsewhere to visit Panakkad Thangal."
IUML's Stance on Future Leadership and Ministerial Berths
Salam affirmed that IUML will support the Congress party's choice for chief minister, regardless of who it might be, and would share their opinion if consulted. He emphasized that the final decision would come as a collective one from the UDF, highlighting the coalition's collaborative decision-making process.
When asked whether IUML was confident of securing five ministerial berths, Salam questioned why the party should be limited to that specific number. He indicated that IUML would not raise the demand proactively and that such decisions would be taken after proper discussions among coalition partners.
The public criticism from IUML comes at a crucial time for the UDF coalition, highlighting internal tensions that could potentially affect the front's unity and electoral prospects. The remarks underscore the delicate balance within coalition politics in Kerala, where public disagreements among allies can have significant political ramifications.
