Congress leader Shanimol Osman was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, making history as the first woman to hold the post in 35 years. The election was conducted unanimously, with the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) backing her candidacy.
Unanimous Election
Osman's election was a rare show of unity in the assembly, with both the LDF and UDF supporting her nomination. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan congratulated her, stating that her elevation reflects the assembly's commitment to gender equality. Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan also praised her, noting that her election was a proud moment for the state.
Historic Achievement
Osman, who represents the Aroor constituency, is the first woman to hold the deputy speaker's post since K.R. Gouri Amma, who served from 1980 to 1985. Gouri Amma was a prominent communist leader and a key figure in Kerala's political history. Osman's election breaks a 35-year gap, highlighting the slow progress of women's representation in top legislative positions in the state.
Speaking after her election, Osman thanked all members for their support and expressed her commitment to ensuring the smooth functioning of the assembly. She emphasized the need for more women in leadership roles and vowed to uphold democratic values.
The deputy speaker's post had been vacant since the resignation of former deputy speaker V. Sasi in July 2023. Osman's election fills the position after months of deliberation between the ruling and opposition parties.
