Internal Turmoil Surfaces in Kerala CPI Before 25th State Conference
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Synopsis
As the Kerala CPI prepares for its 25th State Conference, internal discord surfaces against Binoy Viswam's leadership. Tensions rise due to a controversial directive on committee elections, prompting criticism from veteran leaders like K.E. Ismail, revealing a struggle for democratic principles within the party.
Key Takeaways
- Internal discontent in Kerala CPI leadership.
- Controversial directive threatens democratic processes.
- K.E. Ismail criticizes leadership decisions.
- Party facing challenges from CPI(M) dominance.
- Upcoming State Conference in Alappuzha.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 8 (NationPress) As the Kerala unit of the Communist Party of India (CPI) prepares for its 25th State Conference in Alappuzha this September, signs of internal discord have begun to surface. There is growing discontent directed at the state leadership led by former Minister Binoy Viswam.
In anticipation of the upcoming conference, the party is currently engaged in electing new leaders at the grassroots and district levels. Tensions escalated following a contentious directive stating that punitive measures would be taken against those who oppose the party’s decisions during the new committee elections.
This directive suggests that the party leadership will present a list of nominees for various committees that must be accepted without dissent. This has raised alarm among several senior members, who perceive the action as undemocratic.
One prominent critic is K.E. Ismail, an 83-year-old veteran leader, former minister, and three-time MLA.
“I am unaware of such a directive. Currently, I am just an ordinary member and not part of any party committees. However, our party has consistently adhered to its constitution. If disagreements persist after discussions, then democratic principles must prevail, and the majority’s view should be accepted. That is the party's doctrine,” Ismail expressed.
Ismail was suspended for six months last month, with the decision awaiting approval from the State Council.
“The State Council is convening later this week, and I doubt any actions that contravene the party's constitution will be permitted. The leadership needs to ensure fairness throughout the process,” he emphasized.
Ismail has long been critical of Viswam and his predecessor, the late Kanam Rajendran.
In response to Ismail's critiques, Viswam asserted, “In our party, democracy prevails.”
The CPI, which is the second-largest faction in the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Left government, has been facing dissatisfaction among its members, with many viewing the CPI(M)'s dominance as a contributing factor to the CPI’s diminishing voice within the alliance.
