Congress in Kerala faces internal rift over Rahul Mamkootathil's candidature for Palakkad bypoll

Growing discontent within Congress over Rahul Mamkootathil's selection for Palakkad bypoll in Kerala, sparking calls for reconsideration from party members.

Discontent is growing within the Congress party over the selection of Youth Congress State president Rahul Mamkootathil as the candidate for the upcoming Palakkad Assembly bypoll.

A day after the AICC announced the candidature of Mr. Mamkootathil for the Palakkad seat, KPCC Digital Media convenor P. Sarin on Wednesday (October 16, 2024) openly expressed his dissatisfaction with how the decision was made.

The election for the seat became necessary after party leader Shafi Parambil vacated it following his election to the Lok Sabha from the Vadakara seat.

Seeking a reconsideration of the Congress’ candidate selection for the constituency, Mr. Sarin told reporters here that if the party does not correct those who are trying to control it by catering to the interests of a few individuals, “Palakkad could turn into another Haryana.”

He expressed his displeasure indirectly over Mr. Parambil's role in bringing Mr. Mamkootathil to the Palakkad Assembly seat.

Mr. Sarin said that he had written a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, explaining the “benefits” of selecting him as the candidate.

"Winning in Palakkad is essential; otherwise, the loss won't be of Rahul Mamkootathil but of Rahul Gandhi. If, even after a review, the party still believes Mr. Mamkootathil is the best candidate, half the battle is already won," Mr. Sarin said.