Even before officially becoming Kerala’s Chief Minister, V.D. Satheesan is tasked with the challenging job of calming down senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, a prominent figure in Kerala politics known for his resilience and success. The situation is not just about administration or organization; it holds significant political and emotional weight within the Congress system. Chennithala, a key figure in Kerala politics for over four decades, has held various crucial roles within the Congress party, making him a leader of great influence and experience.
Chennithala, who is nearing 70 years old, has had a long and successful political career in Kerala, with only a rare setback during the 2004 Lok Sabha election. His vast experience and strong organizational hold make him a leader that cannot be overlooked, even by a newly appointed Chief Minister with strong backing from the party’s high command. The recent uncertainty over the Chief Minister’s position has revealed internal tensions within the Congress-led front, with some factions supporting Chennithala.
The decision to appoint Satheesan as the Chief Minister, following consultations and negotiations, has not been received well by Chennithala, posing a significant challenge for the incoming leader. Despite missing an initial meeting with newly elected legislators, Chennithala has expressed his best wishes for Satheesan and the party. Satheesan is now expected to reach out to Chennithala and offer him a significant role in the cabinet, aiming to ensure a smooth transition without creating any rifts within the government.
The focus for Satheesan now lies in maintaining political harmony and respect for Chennithala within the new power structure, emphasizing the importance of unity among senior leaders for the Congress leadership. The task ahead involves more than just forming a cabinet or allocating portfolios; it is about ensuring that all key figures are politically engaged and included in the decision-making process to strengthen the government’s foundation.
