Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan has said that while the United Democratic Front (UDF) may accept support from parties such as the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Twenty20, it does not want the backing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI()M], Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), or Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) in the election to the key posts in the local bodies.
“We have also instructed district units that anyone elected as local body chiefs with the support of these parties should resign immediately,” he told media persons here on Saturday. “Has any party in Kerala ever done that?” he asked.
He reiterated that the Congress selected chairperson candidates for local bodies strictly in accordance with party procedure. He said that anyone overlooked for the post may say whatever they wish.
Potential mayoral candidate and Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee general secretary Deepthy Mary Varghese had repeatedly alleged that the KPCC circular was violated in the selection of the mayoral candidate for Kochi Corporation.
Mr. Satheesan emphasised that while the Congress follows a democratic process in candidate selection, in the CPI(M) it is the party that makes the decision.
Published – December 27, 2025 07:39 pm IST
