After a recent electoral defeat and internal party criticism, former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is now confronted with a new challenge from the incoming government led by V. D. Satheesan. The Satheesan cabinet, in its first meeting, has proposed G. Sudhakaran as the pro-tem Speaker of the 16th Kerala Legislative Assembly, a move laden with political implications. Sudhakaran’s nomination holds significance due to his past discord with the CPI-M leadership and his opposition to Vijayan.
The pro-tem Speaker role is traditionally given to the senior-most MLA, but Sudhakaran’s appointment carries weight given his history of conflict with the CPI-M and Vijayan. Sudhakaran’s victory as an independent candidate in Ambalappuzha was seen as a challenge to Vijayan’s dominance within the party. This decision sets the stage for Sudhakaran to preside over the Assembly’s inaugural session, posing a potential dilemma for Vijayan.
The prospect of Vijayan taking the oath as an MLA before Sudhakaran, who has been a vocal critic, raises questions about the former CM’s political standing. Speculation suggests Vijayan might skip the initial swearing-in and opt to take the oath later before the permanent Speaker. Amidst internal party criticisms and recent setbacks, Sudhakaran’s elevation adds to the challenges faced by Vijayan and the CPI-M.
