Thiruvananthapuram, 08 March (H.S):

The Kerala Congress (Joseph faction) is preparing for a possible generational transition in its leadership, with indications that party chairman P.J. Joseph may step away from contesting the upcoming Assembly elections. Party sources suggest that his son, Apu John Joseph, could make his electoral debut if Joseph decides not to enter the fray.

The matter is expected to be discussed at the party’s high-level steering committee meeting scheduled after March 7. Leaders believe that bringing Apu John Joseph to the forefront could inject fresh dynamism into the party’s organisational and electoral strategies.

At present, bilateral discussions are underway between the Congress and Kerala Congress (Joseph) regarding seat-sharing arrangements within the United Democratic Front (UDF). If P.J. Joseph opts out of contesting, Apu John Joseph is likely to be fielded from the Thodupuzha Assembly constituency, a traditional stronghold of the veteran leader.

P.J. Joseph has represented Thodupuzha since 1970 and has won the seat ten times, making him one of Kerala’s most experienced legislators. Apu John Joseph has already been active in the party as its state coordinator and is considered part of the younger generation being groomed for leadership.

However, Joseph’s possible withdrawal from electoral politics has also raised speculation about internal dynamics within the party. Some observers fear that a power struggle could emerge between Apu John Joseph and senior party leader Mons Joseph, who is considered the second-most influential figure in the organisation. Party leaders, however, have dismissed such concerns, asserting that unity within the party remains intact.

Even if P.J. Joseph decides not to contest the election, he is expected to continue as the party chairman and retain control over major political decisions. A senior Kerala Congress leader said Joseph would remain the guiding force of the party and continue to play a decisive role in key matters.

Meanwhile, within the party itself, a section of leaders has urged P.J. Joseph to reconsider and contest again from Thodupuzha in view of the changing political environment.

Congress leaders had also reportedly suggested that Joseph consider contesting from the Idukki constituency against LDF minister Roshy Augustine, but Joseph is understood to have declined the proposal.

Sources said Apu John Joseph has informed the leadership that he would consider entering the electoral arena if his father steps aside.

Seat-sharing negotiations between the Congress and Kerala Congress (Joseph) are also witnessing friction. The Congress has reportedly urged the party to reconsider some of its proposed candidates and even give up a few seats, arguing that fielding weak candidates in a tightly contested election could prove politically damaging.

The Congress has specifically asked for a review of candidates in Kothamangalam and Irinjalakuda, though Kerala Congress leaders have not yet agreed to these demands.

Among the names being considered by Kerala Congress for the upcoming polls are Mons Joseph (Kaduthuruthy), Thomas Unniyadan (Irinjalakuda), Reji Cherian (Kuttanad) and V.J. Laly (Changanassery). Meanwhile, the party’s nominee for the Idukki parliamentary constituency has reportedly been described by the Congress as politically weak.

There are also discussions within the UDF about a possible seat swap involving Poonjar and Ettumanoor. Additionally, the proposed UDF candidate Shibu Thekkumpurath in Kothamangalam has reportedly faced opposition from sections of the Roman Catholic Church, adding another layer of complexity to the alliance negotiations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman