Will P.A. Mohammed Riyas Join CPI(M) Central Committee?
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Synopsis
As the CPI(M) party congress in Madurai nears, attention focuses on P.A. Mohammed Riyas, son-in-law of CM Pinarayi Vijayan, and his potential induction into the new Central Committee. His rapid political rise since his marriage to Vijayan's daughter has raised questions about his future role within the party.
Key Takeaways
- Riyas's political rise began with his marriage to Vijayan's daughter.
- He won a safe seat in the 2021 Assembly elections.
- Vijayan's influence significantly boosts Riyas's prospects.
- Anticipation builds as the CPI(M) congress approaches.
- Community dynamics may affect Riyas's appointment.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 1 (NationPress) As the 24th CPI(M) party congress approaches in Madurai, speculation arises regarding P.A. Mohammed Riyas, the son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Fast-tracked within the state party unit, many are curious if he will receive further elevation with the announcement of the new Central Committee (CC) in the coming days.
Since marrying Vijayan's daughter Veena during the Covid pandemic in 2020, Riyas's political ascent has been noteworthy. He represented the safe seat of Beypore in the 2021 Assembly elections and secured victory as anticipated.
Upon forming his Cabinet, Vijayan bestowed upon Riyas the prestigious Public Works Department portfolio, traditionally allocated to seasoned politicians, marking a significant achievement for a first-time legislator.
Riyas also surprised many by being assigned the tourism department, previously held by veteran leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan during the 2006 V.S. Achuthanandan Cabinet.
In a further unexpected development, Riyas was appointed to the influential state secretariat of the CPI(M) in Kerala in 2022, solidifying Vijayan's stronghold over both the state and national party.
A critical meeting of the state secretariat is scheduled for Tuesday, just before state leaders head to Madurai. This meeting aims to outline strategies for the congress, where a new general secretary, politburo, and Central Committee will be selected.
Among the candidates for the new general secretary role is M.A. Baby, with four politburo members and 15 Central Committee members currently representing the state. With three retirements expected, discussions are underway regarding Riyas's potential inclusion in the CC.
A media analyst, wishing to remain anonymous, suggested that Riyas's community background could play a role in his favor, leveraging Vijayan's influence. In contrast, state Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian, who has seniority over Riyas, may face challenges due to the existing representation of two Christians in the CC.
State Ports Minister V.N. Vasavan, a close confidant of Vijayan from the influential Hindu Ezhava community, is also in contention. Additionally, it’s likely that a female leader will secure a position in the CC.
Notably, Vijayan is currently the only party leader permitted to serve beyond the mandated retirement age of 75 set by the CPI(M). As he approaches 80 and faces health challenges, Riyas's potential elevation would not be surprising given Vijayan's significant influence.
