Kerala Congress (M) Faces Internal Turmoil Over Pala Candidature
Speculation is intensifying regarding a fresh political development within the Kerala Congress (M), as the rift between party chairman Jose K Mani and minister Roshy Augustine widens over Mani's potential candidature in Pala for the upcoming assembly election. The differences between the two leaders have escalated following a failed attempt by a section of the KC(M) leadership to rejoin the United Democratic Front (UDF) ahead of the polls.
Augustine's Assertive Stance on Mani's Candidature
Roshy Augustine reportedly thwarted the move to return to the UDF, leaving the party with no alternative but to remain in the Left Democratic Front (LDF). In a bold move earlier this week, Augustine snatched the microphone from Mani and publicly announced that Mani would be the LDF candidate from Pala. He reiterated this position on Friday, despite Mani telling the media that no decision had been made regarding the candidate in Pala.
Just minutes after Mani's statement, Augustine took a tough stance, asserting that Mani would contest from Pala in his capacity as KC(M) chairman. "Our chairman will contest. What the party needs is leadership. People will back the party if the leadership is able," Augustine said, in what appeared to be a pointed dig at Mani. Addressing the media at Moolamattom in Idukki, Augustine dismissed rumors that KC(M) MLAs would stay away from the electoral fray and clarified that the party had not approached the UDF, urging an end to unfounded claims.
Mani's Dilemma and External Pressures
Augustine's insistence on Mani's candidature seems strategic, as Mani is reportedly in two minds about contesting from Pala. The Church, a crucial factor in Pala, has already expressed its displeasure with the LDF government. While the Church would wholeheartedly support Mani if he were in the UDF, it hesitates to do so while he remains in the LDF. Additionally, traditional LDF voters are losing confidence in Mani due to the earlier move to return to the UDF, casting a shadow over his ability to secure their votes. These factors have placed Mani in a significant dilemma regarding his candidature in Pala.
Power Dynamics Within the Party
Since thwarting the UDF move, Augustine has assumed the role of a 'super chairman' within the party, dictating terms on candidature and other matters. This has put Mani on the defensive, as Augustine's actions challenge his authority and leadership. The internal conflict highlights deeper issues within KC(M), as the party navigates electoral strategies and alliance politics in the lead-up to the assembly elections.
The ongoing rift between Mani and Augustine not only threatens party unity but also impacts KC(M)'s electoral prospects in Pala and beyond. As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on how this internal power struggle will resolve and what it means for Kerala's political landscape.
