The formation of the new United Democratic Front (UDF) cabinet in Kerala has hit a roadblock as differences over portfolio allocation persist. Senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan confirmed on Tuesday that there are disagreements within the alliance regarding who should be assigned the Fisheries and Higher Education portfolios.
Delay in Cabinet Formation
The UDF, which secured a decisive victory in the recent Kerala assembly elections, is yet to finalize its cabinet lineup. According to Muraleedharan, the delay stems from internal negotiations over key ministries. He stated that the party leadership is working to resolve the differences amicably and that a consensus is expected soon.
Key Portfolios Under Dispute
The Fisheries portfolio is considered crucial given Kerala's long coastline and the significant fishing community. Similarly, Higher Education is a high-profile ministry overseeing the state's educational institutions. Both portfolios have attracted multiple claimants from within the coalition, leading to the current impasse.
Muraleedharan, however, expressed confidence that the UDF leadership, including Chief Minister V D Satheesan, would find a solution in the coming days. He emphasized that the alliance remains united and that the delay is a temporary phase in the democratic process of government formation.
The UDF's victory in the elections was seen as a mandate for change, and the new government is expected to prioritize development and welfare. However, the prolonged cabinet formation has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the UDF of internal bickering.
Political analysts suggest that the delay could be resolved by the end of the week, with portfolios being allocated based on a formula that balances regional and community representation within the coalition. Meanwhile, the outgoing government continues to handle routine administrative matters until the new cabinet is sworn in.
