Analysis | Rahul overrules veterans to revamp the Congress in Kerala

Many supporters of incumbent Chennithala and former CM Chandy themselves want a ‘generational shift’ in the leadership.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi stood firm on appointing V.D. Satheesan as the party’s legislature party leader in Kerala, in the face of stiff resistance against the move from the current incumbent Ramesh Chennithala and former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. Rivals-turned-allies, Mr. Chennithala and Mr. Chandy have been in control of the party in Kerala for more than five years now. As the defeat of the party in the recent Assembly elections is being attributed to a series of steps taken by the duo, many of their own supporters now want a “generational shift” in the leadership. Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Mullappally Ramachandran will also be replaced soon, according to party functionaries familiar with the developments. Mr. Chandy has proposed 74-year-old K.C. Joseph to the post, who is not finding favour among several MLAs, MPs and other party workers who spoke to The Hindu. “Sentiments of the workers will be the determining factor. Mr. Gandhi is clear that the current level of factional favouritism cannot be allowed in the party,” an AICC functionary said. “The message is clear. At all levels, people who are willing to work, who have the merit and public acceptance must be given leadership. That is the only way the party can rebuild in Kerala,” the functionary said. Mr. Gandhi is, however, eager to hold both leaders close. Mr. Chandy, at 78, is frail; Mr. Chennithala, 64, will likely be given a responsibility at the national level. As a former president of the National Students’ Union of India and Indian Youth Congress, he has a national network. Mr. Satheesan has been asked to work closely with these leaders, and build a new unity of purpose in the Congress.