Rival Kerala Congress factions observe K.M. Mani’s sixth death anniversary

Rival Kerala Congress factions honor late leader K.M. Mani in separate events, highlighting his legacy and political contributions.

Amid a continuing battle over the ‘true legacy’ of K.M. Mani, the rival Kerala Congress factions on Wednesday held separate functions to mark the sixth death anniversary of the late party patriarch.

The Jose K. Mani-led Kerala Congress (M) [KC(M)] observed the occasion with a ‘K.M. Mani Smriti Sangamam’ at Thirunakkara in Kottayam, honouring their founder leader. The day began with a mass at St. Thomas Cathedral Church in Pala, attended by Mani’s family members, including his wife, Kuttiyamma, and son, Mr. Mani, who is also the KC(M) chairperson. Minister Roshy Augustine and other close associates joined them in paying respects. Following the service, the group visited Mani’s tomb to offer prayers.

The commemorative event at Thirunakkara commenced with Mr. Mani lighting the ceremonial lamp and placing floral tributes before a portrait of the late leader. The programme concluded by 1 p.m., with speeches from Mr. Augustine, party vice-chairperson N. Jayaraj and Thomas Chazhikadan, among others.

The gathering witnessed participation from a wide spectrum of political and cultural figures, including Communist Party of India (Marxist) district secretary T.R. Raghunathan, Communist Party of India district secretary V.B. Binu and other leaders from the Left Democratic Front (LDF). The event at Thirunakkara was the only major public programme held by the KC(M).

Meanwhile, the rival faction led by P.J. Joseph observed the anniversary under the theme ‘Day of the Toiling Class,’ as a tribute to Mani. Party chairperson Mr. Joseph laid a floral wreath at Mani’s tomb in Pala early in the morning and hailed the late leader as a champion of the farmers and underprivileged. He also criticised the LDF, of which the KC(M) is a part, for implementing policies that harm the very working-class communities the late leader had championed.

Leaders including Kerala Congress working chairperson P.C. Thomas, executive chairperson Mons Joseph, secretary general Joy Abraham, deputy chairperson K. Francis George, MP, and State coordinator Apu John Joseph took part in the commemorations.