Shashi Tharoor Engages with IUML Leaders for Kerala CM Aspirations
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Synopsis
As the Kerala Assembly elections draw near, MP Shashi Tharoor has met with the leadership of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) to bolster his chances for the chief ministerial candidacy. His recent activities in Malappuram signal a strategic push for support in light of internal party dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- Shashi Tharoor is vying for the Kerala CM position.
- He has met with key IUML leaders for support.
- The IUML plays a crucial role in Congress's strategies.
- Tharoor's visit to Malappuram indicates a proactive approach.
- Factionalism within the Kerala Congress is an ongoing issue.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 25 (NationPress) As the Assembly elections approach next year and amid the ongoing tensions within the Kerala Congress, MP Shashi Tharoor has engaged with the senior leadership of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) to advocate for his candidacy for the chief ministerial position in the state.
Although the final decision regarding the Chief Minister will rest with the Congress high command, the practice has been to consider the IUML's input for this critical role.
The IUML, which significantly contributed to the overwhelming victory of Priyanka Gandhi in the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency, is well-regarded by the party's leadership.
Tharoor initiated discussions with IUML's supreme leader Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal and followed up with another prominent IUML figure, veteran legislator P.K. Kunhalikutty.
His recent presence in the Muslim-dominated Malappuram district for four days, participating in various events organized by the IUML and other Muslim groups, has sent a clear message regarding his quest for support for the prestigious position.
A political analyst, speaking anonymously, mentioned that the Congress state leaders have a history of engaging in factional disputes.
“Tharoor is astute and understands that to claim the coveted post, he requires the backing of the IUML, which is the second-largest ally of the Congress-led UDF, and his meetings with Thangal and Kunhalikutty will stir the waters within the state Congress,” he remarked.
Political analysts believe that since Tharoor's unsuccessful bid for the Congress party presidency, he has been harboring ambitions to become the Chief Minister of his state ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Despite losing the party president position, he was appointed as a member of the CWC, which has caused discontent among certain Congress leaders in Kerala.
His four-day visit to Malappuram is seen as a strategic move to strengthen his candidacy for the chief ministerial role.
