In a detailed review of its recent electoral loss, the Kerala CPI(M) has admitted to several political misjudgments. The party’s internal discussions have highlighted concerns regarding leadership style, operational methods, and organizational culture. The Secretariat report, which will be deliberated on by the state committee on Monday, points out specific errors made during the election campaign.
The report concedes that the party’s failure to distance itself from SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan and a flawed candidate selection in Thaliparamba were significant missteps. Additionally, the controversy surrounding the reading of a message from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the Ayyappa Sangamam was deemed detrimental to the party’s image and political standing.
Criticism within the party extended beyond these issues, with discussions at various levels highlighting concerns about Pinarayi Vijayan’s leadership style. Members expressed dissatisfaction with both Vijayan’s perceived arrogance and State Secretary M.V. Govindan’s engagement with party members and the public. Despite these critiques, Vijayan’s appointment as Leader of Opposition was supported unanimously.
While acknowledging Vijayan’s continued influence within the State Secretariat, party insiders concede that calls for a broader leadership review were not heeded. The party successfully resisted calls for a special state plenum to delve into the defeat in detail, opting instead for lower committee discussions and a three-month plan for corrective actions. This approach signals a commitment to reform without a significant leadership shake-up.
