Kochi, 20 May (H.S.):With the portfolio allocation for the new Kerala Cabinet completed and the Congress fully shifting its focus to governance, attention is now gradually turning toward an equally significant task within the party — a major organisational reshuffle. The induction of several senior party office-bearers into the UDF government has created multiple vacancies in key positions, triggering discussions at different levels within the party.
The appointment of the KPCC president to the Cabinet, along with the inclusion of two working presidents, a vice-president, and the state Youth Congress president in ministerial positions, has left several important posts vacant. Though the party leadership has not yet formally initiated discussions on filling these positions, internal conversations and lobbying have already begun at the grassroots and factional levels.
At present, senior leaders remain occupied with government formation and administrative responsibilities. However, party insiders suggest that various groups have already started promoting their preferred candidates for the vacant posts, particularly for the influential position of KPCC president.
Sources indicate that senior Congress leaders Kodikunnil Suresh, Benny Behanan, and Anto Antony have already begun informal efforts and consultations regarding the possibility of assuming the top organisational role. The post is expected to become a subject of intense political discussions once the government settles into its routine functioning.
Another key vacancy attracting attention is the leadership of the Kerala Youth Congress. The unexpected elevation of O.J. Janeesh to the Cabinet has opened up discussions on who could lead the party’s youth wing in the coming years.
Although the leadership has not officially entered the selection process, several names are already circulating among party workers and district-level leaders. Binu Chulliyil, whose name had surfaced prominently during previous discussions, is once again considered a strong contender. Currently serving as a working president, he is seen by many as a natural choice.
Apart from him, Kozhikode District President and District Panchayat member R. Shehin, Malappuram District President Harris Muthur, and Pathanamthitta District President Vijay Induchoodan are also being actively discussed. Political observers note that all three leaders are considered close to AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, potentially adding another dimension to the emerging internal dynamics within the Congress.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
