Are CPI(M)'s House Visits Just Political Theatre? Chennithala Weighs In
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Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 16 (NationPress) Senior Congress legislator and CWC member Ramesh Chennithala launched a fierce critique against the CPI(M) on Friday, labeling the ruling party's recent outreach initiatives as “political theatre” designed to obscure a decade of governance shortcomings. He confidently stated that the Left would not reclaim power in Kerala.
In the wake of the Left's significant defeat in the local body elections in December, leading figures, including party general secretary M.A. Baby, have been visiting homes to discuss the forthcoming Assembly elections and the necessity of a third consecutive term for Pinarayi Vijayan.
“The public will see through the political charade of visiting homes under the guise of ‘house visits’ and offering apologies as elections near, after inflicting considerable damage on the populace for ten years. This will not deceive the electorate,” Chennithala remarked, asserting that public sentiment in the state has decisively shifted against the Left government.
He accused the CPI(M) of glaring double standards, pointing out that leaders who switched from Congress to join the Left were embraced with open arms, receiving prominent roles and political protection.
“Conversely, those who move towards Congress are labeled as class traitors and disparaged. This hypocrisy will not be tolerated in Kerala,” he added.
Chennithala dismissed allegations that the Congress or the UDF was orchestrating defections from the Left.
“We are not luring anyone. Individuals are departing the CPI(M) voluntarily, disillusioned by the party's operations. The reality is that true Communism has faded within the CPI(M), making it challenging for even devoted Communists to remain,” he explained.
Highlighting electoral trends, the former Opposition leader noted that more segments of society have been gravitating towards Congress since the last local body elections.
“Following ten years of hardship, distress, and mismanagement, the electorate is yearning for change. Simply asserting that there is no anti-incumbency will not erase the profound discontent among the populace,” he stated.
Clarifying the UDF's stance amid speculation of political realignments, Chennithala affirmed that no party had been approached for discussions, either officially or unofficially.
“We have not invited anyone to join the UDF. However, we will not turn anyone away either. Any decisions will be made collectively and transparently,” he concluded.