By Our Correspondent
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Congress is embroiled in a fresh round of power struggles between its top leaders, with Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President K Sudhakaran and Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan at the center of the conflict. Sudhakaran’s allies have accused Satheesan of “meddling” in the party’s organizational affairs, leading to tensions as Satheesan chose to skip a KPCC meeting on Friday.
In New Delhi, Sudhakaran expressed his frustration, asserting that any interference by the Opposition Leader in KPCC matters needs to be addressed. “If such interference is occurring, I know how to handle it,” said Sudhakaran, who represents Kannur in Parliament.
The current dispute revolves around Satheesan’s recent actions, including directing Congress leaders from various districts to implement strategies from a party conclave held in Wayanad. This conclave was intended to prepare the party for upcoming local body and Assembly elections. Sudhakaran’s supporters viewed Satheesan’s directives as an encroachment on his authority as KPCC president, accusing Satheesan of establishing a parallel party structure.
In response, Satheesan defended his actions, acknowledging that while he is open to criticism, he has no complaints if the criticism is justified. “As Opposition Leader, I am not immune to criticism and am willing to correct myself if needed,” he stated.
On Friday, Satheesan’s absence from a crucial party meeting in Thiruvananthapuram, which was convened to discuss the Wayanad conclave’s outcomes, further fueled the rift. The conclave had been organized to strategize for the party’s future, following a strong performance in the Lok Sabha elections, where the Congress-led UDF secured 18 out of 20 seats.
Sudhakaran and Satheesan were appointed to their respective roles—KPCC president and Leader of the Opposition—in 2021, following the UDF’s disappointing performance in the Assembly elections. Their ongoing disputes have been a recurring issue, with past disagreements even spilling into public view, such as a media altercation over who should lead a press conference.
During the Lok Sabha elections, M M Hassan temporarily took over as KPCC president while Sudhakaran contested from Kannur. Although Hassan was expected to remain in charge until the election results were announced, Sudhakaran insisted on resuming his position immediately afterward, fearing that an adverse result could jeopardize his status. However, Sudhakaran secured re-election from Kannur with a record margin, reinforcing his position.
