Malappuram, 02 May (H.S.): Flex banners targeting the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) over its perceived support for V D Satheesan have surfaced in Malappuram, sparking a fresh controversy within the Congress-led UDF amid the ongoing debate over the chief ministerial face in Kerala.

The banners, which appeared in Kottakkal, sharply criticised the League leadership and cautioned Congress leaders against “falling into the PR trap” of Satheesan. They demanded that the decision on the chief minister should be left to the Congress high command, rather than being influenced by publicity campaigns or alliance pressures.

In a strongly worded message, the banners alleged that Satheesan had “betrayed” former chief minister Oommen Chandy and was now attempting to mislead party leaders and cadres through image-building efforts. The banners were put up under the name “Pachappada Malappuram” and were removed shortly after visuals went viral on social media.

In contrast, a show of support for Satheesan emerged in Thodupuzha, where a large flex board praised him as a leader capable of leading the state. Installed near Pattayam Kavala, the banner carried the slogan “The one who led the battle will lead the state,” along with his full-length image. It was erected in the name of “Team UDF Thodupuzha.”

The developments come amid an intensifying leadership debate within the Congress, with multiple factions weighing in on the chief ministerial question. The IUML has recently indicated indirect support for Satheesan, citing exit poll findings that suggest strong public backing for him as the preferred candidate.

IUML state president Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal said that public opinion reflected in exit polls should be taken into account while deciding the chief minister, further fuelling the political debate within the alliance.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman