Senior Congress leader Tariq Anwar on Friday clarified that any decision regarding KC Venugopal becoming the chief minister of Kerala, should the United Democratic Front (UDF) win the upcoming Assembly elections, will be contingent upon the party's internal procedures and final approval from the high command.
Process for Selecting Chief Ministerial Candidate
In an interview, Anwar, who serves as the Member of Parliament from Bihar's Katihar constituency and is a former Kerala in-charge, elaborated on how the Congress party would determine its chief ministerial candidate. He emphasized that even if Venugopal is interested in the role, he must adhere to the established protocols within the party.
"If the legislative party authorizes the high command for the final decision, then it will do so," Anwar stated, underscoring the importance of following due process.
Detailed Procedure
Anwar provided a step-by-step explanation of the selection process. The party high command will appoint an observer who will convene a meeting of the Congress legislative party. If a consensus emerges during the discussions, the observer will communicate this to the All India Congress Committee (AICC). Subsequently, the party leadership will make the final decision.
"The high command will take a final view," he said, reiterating that the ultimate authority rests with the central leadership.
Speculation Over Venugopal
Addressing speculation that Venugopal, who is the Congress general secretary (organisation), might become chief minister despite not contesting the Assembly polls, Anwar stressed that interest alone is insufficient. "If the Congress general secretary (organisation) was interested, he will have to undergo the requisite process," he said. "There is no confusion about it," he added, dispelling any ambiguity about the necessity of following party norms.
Confidence in UDF's Prospects
Anwar also expressed confidence in the UDF's prospects in Kerala, citing trends from exit polls. He indicated that the alliance is well-positioned to perform strongly in the elections.
