KPCC President Denies Any Discussions with Kerala Congress (M)
KPCC president Sunny Joseph made a clear statement today. He said no discussions were held about bringing Kerala Congress (M) back into the UDF alliance. The Congress party did not contact them at all.
UDF's Growing Grassroots Support
Sunny Joseph highlighted the UDF coalition's expanding support base. He said grassroots support is growing steadily. More people are joining the front every day.
He specifically mentioned individuals like Aisha Potty coming forward. This shows increasing public participation in the UDF's activities.
Kerala Congress Steering Committee Meeting
It is learned that the Kerala Congress steering committee will meet on January 16. Joseph confirmed there were no informal discussions with Kerala Congress recently.
He added that it remains unknown whether constituent party leaders were contacted by anyone. When asked if Kerala Congress is essential for UDF's victory, Joseph said the UDF meeting would discuss this matter.
AICC General Secretary Dismisses Expansion Rumors
Meanwhile, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal addressed media reports about UDF expansion. He called these reports mere rumors. Venugopal stated the front is not being overconfident about its prospects.
He clarified that Kerala Congress has not yet expressed interest in joining the UDF. No discussions were held with anyone regarding this matter, he emphasized.
Historical Context and Current Position
Venugopal acknowledged that Kerala Congress (M) is a party with UDF heritage. He said if they express a desire to return, discussions will certainly be held at that time.
He observed that Kerala is leaning toward the UDF with each passing day. While there is a favorable situation for winning with a large majority, he cautioned against overconfidence.
The belief within the party is that it will be a tough battle moving forward, Venugopal concluded.
Former Opposition Leader's Perspective
Former opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala offered his perspective on the situation. He noted that Jose K Mani's party is currently part of the LDF alliance. They have made their position clear.
Chennithala said discussions become relevant only when a party leaves or expresses interest in leaving its current front. Trying to bring a party within an alliance to our side is not the right approach, he stated.
Otherwise, they should express their interest first. Until then, what is the relevance of any discussion, he asked rhetorically.
Confidence in UDF's Electoral Prospects
Chennithala expressed strong confidence in UDF's electoral prospects. He pointed to significant victories in both panchayat and Parliament elections.
It is well known that in the upcoming assembly elections, the UDF will come to power by winning more than 100 seats, he asserted. There is no doubt about this outcome.
The people of Kerala are thinking favorably about the UDF, Chennithala observed. The public strongly desires a change in governance.
Only one person who does not understand this reality is the chief minister of Kerala, Chennithala concluded pointedly.