Person who becomes chief minister need not be an MLA, says V K Sreekandan

Palakkad: Congress leader and Palakkad MP V K Sreekandan on Sunday said that the person who becomes chief minister need not necessarily be someone who has won a seat in the assembly elections. Addressing the media here, Sreekandan expressed confidence that UDF would come to power in Kerala and secure a resounding victory in the Palakkad constituency.Responding to a query on the chief ministerial candidate of UDF, he said, "In a democratic system, even if the person is not an MLA, he can assume office as chief minister and get elected within six months." He added that such questions hold little relevance within Congress. "The party leadership will take the decision, and both party workers and the public will accept it," he said. Taking a swipe at CPM, Sreekandan remarked, "You cannot expect the kind of democratic approach seen in Congress within CPM. In the Congress, individuals have the freedom to express their opinions, but in CPM, no one can predict the consequences if someone speaks out." He said Congress follows a structured organisational system, with key decisions taken through internal discussions. "Whoever becomes CM from the Congress, I will personally support them," he added. On electoral prospects, Sreekandan said UDF would retain the Palakkad constituency with a comfortable majority. "There is visible dissent among CPM workers and leaders, and that sentiment will translate into votes in favour of UDF," he claimed. He also asserted that communal forces would not succeed in the constituency. "A secular front like UDF will receive the support of the people," he said, adding that the front is confident of securing victory in Kongad assembly seat as well.