Thiruvananthapuram, 15 May (H.S.): Kerala Chief Minister-designate V D Satheesan on Friday met former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at his residence near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram, in a politically significant interaction that underscored a message of continuity and cooperation ahead of the formation of the new UDF government.
Satheesan reached Pinarayi Vijayan’s rented residence shortly after noon and was received by the veteran CPM leader and his family members. The two leaders held discussions for some time, marking their first formal meeting after the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) secured a sweeping victory in the Assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Satheesan said the incoming government would continue development initiatives launched by the previous LDF administration. “There will be continuity in development,” he said, while stressing the need for bipartisan cooperation on issues concerning the state’s larger interests.
“There are political differences between us. But on important matters concerning Kerala, we must stand together,” Satheesan said, adding that he had sought Pinarayi Vijayan’s cooperation on several issues.
The meeting also symbolised a dramatic political transition in Kerala. Pinarayi Vijayan, who served two consecutive terms as Chief Minister, is now set to become the Leader of the Opposition, while Satheesan, who had held that role for the past several years, prepares to take over as Chief Minister.
Earlier in the day, Satheesan visited the residence of late Congress stalwart and former Speaker G Karthikeyan. He met Karthikeyan’s wife and Congress leader K Sabarinadhan, recalling the late leader’s support during his political career. He later visited senior Congress leader Adoor Prakash and praised him for strengthening the “Team UDF” campaign during the Assembly elections.
Responding to questions regarding reports that senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala was unhappy over missing out on the Chief Minister’s post, Satheesan dismissed the speculation. “There is no such issue. I will meet him too,” he said.
Satheesan was chosen as Chief Minister by the Congress High Command on Thursday, 11 days after the election results were announced. Along with Satheesan, senior leaders Ramesh Chennithala and AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal had also been considered for the post.
Meanwhile, the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting is scheduled to be held at 4 p.m. on Friday to finalise ministerial allocations. The Congress is expected to retain 11 cabinet berths, while the remaining positions will be shared among UDF alliance partners to ensure coalition balance.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
