The Congress high command has expressed displeasure over the ongoing public debate within the Kerala state unit regarding the chief ministerial candidate and has directed all functionaries to immediately stop such discussions.
Directive from AICC
AICC general secretary Deepa Dasmunshi conveyed the directive to state leaders following instructions from Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. Sources revealed that Rahul voiced dissatisfaction over leaders engaging in premature discussions about the chief ministerial post despite an earlier order to avoid speculation.
During a recent KPCC meeting held online, Dasmunshi reiterated the AICC's concerns and warned that the party would take action against those who continue to fuel such debates. The high command also noted that these discussions have led to public ridicule that could damage the party's image.
Disciplinary action initiated
In a related development, the KPCC decided to initiate disciplinary action over a full-page advertorial published in an English daily projecting Ramesh Chennithala as a probable CM candidate if the party wins the elections. The party viewed the move as a breach of discipline.
Despite a prior KPCC directive banning public statements on the issue, instances of violations continue. The controversy intensified on Tuesday after a flex board supporting Chennithala and criticizing opposition leader VD Satheesan appeared in Ernakulam, causing embarrassment to the party. Leaders aligned with Chennithala denied involvement. Chennithala, who is in New Delhi, declined to comment.
Rahul Gandhi's firm stand
Taking a firm stand, Rahul emphasized that internal contests over the CM post are unwarranted and should arise only after the results are declared. He instructed the KPCC to immediately end public claims and social media campaigns by supporters.
The issue also triggered unease among UDF allies. Kerala Congress (Joseph) clarified that it will not take sides amid reports of divisions and described the CM debate as unnecessary. Coalition partners have already conveyed their concerns to the Congress high command.
Show cause notice issued
Meanwhile, the KPCC began disciplinary proceedings in the state and issued a show cause notice to Thiruvananthapuram DCC general secretary A Prijin Babu for publishing the advertorial supporting Chennithala. The party said that his failure to provide a satisfactory explanation within three days will invite further action.
Earlier, the AICC and KPCC had instructed leaders and workers to refrain from making public statements through print, visual media, or social platforms regarding the CM's post, warning that such actions could harm the party's credibility.
