Cracks widen within ruling UDF as Congress leaders speak out against Keralam government’s style of functioning

UDF chairman and Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. File. | Photo Credit: Nirmal Harindran

Signs of an imminent implosion within the United Democratic Front (UDF), more so in the lead party Congress, were apparent on Thursday when UDF convener Adoor Prakash made no bones about his displeasure over UDF chairman and Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan’s ‘unilateral’ style of functioning. Mr Prakash’s wasn’t an isolated expression of resentment. He was understandably echoing the sentiments of several senior Congress leaders, some of whom shared similar concerns in off-the-record conversations with The Hindu. 

Mr. Prakash’s unusual outburst conveys the impression that things have come to a head. Demand has been rife within the Congress for a reorganisation of the party in the State given that many party honchos, including the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president, also hold ministerial portfolios, leaving them with no time for organisational work and little command over the government. A senior leader, also a Political Affairs Committee (PAC) member, said in exasperation that the high command has left the party in the lurch.