Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 28 (NationPress) As the BJP strengthens its position among the Christian electorate in Kerala -- a territory that has long been a bastion for Congress -- influential members of the Congress party are earnestly deliberating the appointment of a Christian as the state party president. This decision is viewed as a strategic response to the BJP's increasing appeal to the Christian demographic.

Christians represent roughly 18-19 percent of Kerala's total population of 3.3 crore. Over the years, the Congress party has seen five Christian leaders preside over the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), the latest being P.P. Thankachan in 2004. Other distinguished Christian leaders who have held this position include K.C. Abraham, A.K. Antony (served two terms), K.M. Chandy, and A.L. Jacob.

A media analyst has indicated that the pressing need for a leadership shift within Congress is a direct result of the surprising success of BJP candidate Suresh Gopi in the Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

“Thrissur is a district where the Christian community, notably the Catholic faction, wields considerable influence. Gopi's victory took Congress by surprise, as they not only lost the seat but fell to third place. Since that time, Congress leaders have been diligently working to reclaim Christian votes, and many believe that appointing a Christian president is the optimal path forward,” remarked the analyst, preferring to remain unnamed.

This concept reportedly gained momentum after a well-known church leader and a Christian Member of Parliament had a meeting with Sonia Gandhi last month, advocating for the selection of a Christian as the KPCC president.

Currently, the Congress party in Kerala boasts a blend of seasoned and emerging Christian leaders suitable for the position. Among the experienced candidates are Sunny Joseph and Benny Behanan, while younger leaders such as Roji M. John and Hibi Eden have demonstrated their potential.

It is noteworthy that A.K. Antony, now aged 84, was merely 33 when he assumed the role of KPCC president in 1973, establishing a precedent for youthful leadership within the party.

At the moment, K. Sudhakaran, the Lok Sabha MP from Kannur, serves as the Congress party leader in Kerala. However, concerns about his declining health and waning influence have sparked doubts regarding his capability to effectively lead the party, especially with local body elections approaching next year and Assembly elections scheduled for 2026.

Among the prospective successors, Sunny Joseph, a three-term legislator closely aligned with Sudhakaran, stands out. Renowned for his unblemished reputation and ability to avoid controversies, Joseph could emerge as a formidable candidate to revitalize the party's prospects in the state.

Whether the Congress will pursue this strategic initiative remains uncertain, but the call for change is undoubtedly growing.