Thiruvananthapuram, May 18: Former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan faces a new political challenge as the newly formed government navigates through electoral defeat and rising internal criticism. In its inaugural cabinet meeting, the government led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has recommended the appointment of former CPI(M) leader G. Sudhakaran as the Protem Speaker of the 16th Kerala Assembly.
The first session of the Kerala Assembly is set to commence on May 21. Traditionally, the Protem Speaker is appointed from the senior-most member of the assembly, but Sudhakaran’s appointment carries significant political weight this time.
Sudhakaran has had a long-standing conflict with the CPI(M) leadership, particularly with Pinarayi Vijayan. He rebelled against the party leadership by contesting as an independent candidate from the Ambalappuzha constituency, where he emerged victorious. His win has been interpreted as a protest against the diminishing internal democracy within the CPI(M).
Ironically, Sudhakaran will preside over the assembly proceedings on the first day and administer the oath to newly elected members.
A pressing question in Kerala’s political landscape is whether Pinarayi Vijayan will attend the oath-taking ceremony in front of his former cabinet colleague, now political adversary, Sudhakaran. This situation is viewed as extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing for Vijayan, who has cultivated an image of a strong leader with a firm grip on the party and government.
Sources suggest that Vijayan may skip the oath-taking ceremony on the first day and instead take his oath later before the permanent Speaker. Senior Congress leader T. Radhakrishnan is expected to be elected as the permanent Speaker on May 22.
According to assembly rules, if a member does not take the oath before the Protem Speaker on the first day, they can do so later before the elected Speaker.
This development comes at a time when the CPI(M) is facing sharp criticism in district committee meetings regarding the party’s electoral losses, further complicating Vijayan’s position. The decision to appoint Sudhakaran as Protem Speaker has dealt a significant political and psychological blow to the CPI(M).
Meanwhile, the Satheesan government has managed to put the opposition on the defensive even before the assembly session begins. The first session of the new assembly is poised to be more than just a formality; it is set to highlight the growing rifts within the CPI(M) and serve as a public reminder of Pinarayi Vijayan’s waning political influence.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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