IUML cautions Congress over delay in Kerala CM announcement

Kozhikode: IUML strongly criticized the delay by Congress in choosing the next chief minister and warned that prolonged uncertainty has left cadres deeply dissatisfied and if the decision is not taken quickly, there would be consequences that would be different from before. The remarks are being viewed as a tacit expression of disapproval over the attempts to sidestep what the party considers as ‘public sentiment' on the CM choice. IUML is learnt to have conveyed its preference for opposition leader VD Satheesan to assume the post.IUML Malappuram district secretary P Abdul Hameed said the delay had dampened the mood among workers at a time when victory celebrations should have been underway. He added that in several instances newly-elected MLAs were asked not to attend receptions or functions."Women from our district are calling and asking, ‘Is this why we voted for them?' Whether you attend a wedding, a condolence gathering or any public event, this is the only discussion among people. They are asking whether this is what they voted for. I am speaking about the reality in Malappuram," he said. Hameed said it was unfortunate that the leadership failed to meet the expectations of workers who ensured such a decisive victory for UDF.When asked about the demand from a section of Congress workers on making Satheesan the CM, Hameed said IUML does not want to comment on that. "Congress adopts a traditional method in such matters. The high command will understand the current special situation and context and Congress leadership thinks according to the prevailing situation. As far as IUML is concerned, national general secretary PK Kunhalikutty met AICC observers and conveyed the party's opinion," he said, adding that IUML's opinions have always been considered in such matters.Stating that Kerala's electorate is politically conscious, Hameed said comparisons with delays in leadership decisions elsewhere would not be accepted by cadres in Kerala. "People here will not accept explanations that it took around 50 days in Delhi to decide a chief minister or that there is time till May 23. If we say such things to workers here, we will get a slap on the face," he said.