Thiruvananthapuram, 12 May (H.S.): The CPI(M) will begin a series of crucial state leadership meetings from Tuesday in the wake of the Left Democratic Front’s defeat in the recently concluded Kerala Assembly elections, with discussions expected to focus on the reasons behind the setback, organisational restructuring, and the selection of the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly.

The CPI(M) state secretariat meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, is expected to deliberate on the electoral debacle, internal criticism against the party leadership, and the future course of the organisation. This will be followed by a two-day state committee meeting beginning Wednesday, where wider discussions involving senior leaders and district representatives are likely to take place.

Sources said the issue of appointing the new Leader of the Opposition was not discussed during the recent Politburo meeting held in New Delhi. The party’s central leadership is understood to have left the matter to the Kerala unit to decide internally.

The meetings assume significance as strong criticism had reportedly emerged against senior leaders, including former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan, during a marathon 13-hour discussion held at the AKG Centre soon after the election results were declared. Party insiders said several leaders and cadre openly raised concerns over what they described as arrogance in governance, allegations of favouritism within the organisation, and the functioning of the party’s cyber and social media teams during the election campaign.

Despite the criticism, neither Pinarayi Vijayan nor M.V. Govindan is learnt to have responded directly during the discussions. Later, Govindan publicly stated that the CPI(M) encourages open and fearless discussions within party forums and that all members are free to express their opinions without hesitation.

Meanwhile, uncertainty continues over the selection of the Opposition leader. A section within the party is reportedly of the view that Pinarayi Vijayan should assume the role in the Assembly. However, sources indicated that Vijayan has not yet conveyed his willingness to take up the position. If he declines, senior leader and former Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal is likely to emerge as a strong contender for the post.

The outcome of the upcoming meetings is expected to shape the CPI(M)’s strategy as it prepares for its role in the opposition after two consecutive terms in power in Kerala.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman