Sandeep Varier, the AICC (All India Congress Committee) in-charge of Kerala, criticized the selection processes of Chief Minister candidates in both the BJP and CPI(M) ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He asserted the Congress party follows a democratic process for selecting its CM candidates, contrasting it with what he described as top-down decisions in the other parties.
Varier highlighted the lack of internal democracy within the CPI(M), stating that Pinarayi Vijayan continues as Chief Minister solely due to the approval of a small group within the party. He argued that no discussion or election takes place to determine the CM, and dissent is suppressed. Similarly, he claimed the BJP’s CM candidate selection is dictated by the central leadership in Delhi, with no input from state-level party members.
He emphasized that in Congress, potential CM candidates emerge through legislative party meetings and discussions among elected representatives after elections. This allows for a more representative and democratic outcome. Varier also pointed to the Congress’s history of accepting and respecting the decisions made through this process, even when differing opinions exist.
The article details Varier’s response to criticisms regarding the Congress’s performance in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Kerala, where the party failed to win any seats. He defended the party’s candidate selection process then, stating it was based on winnability and representation. He dismissed suggestions of a lack of coordination or internal conflicts as unfounded.
Varier further stated that the Congress-led UDF (United Democratic Front) is confident of a strong performance in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, citing the positive response to their campaign and the public dissatisfaction with the LDF (Left Democratic Front) government’s policies. He predicted a significant shift in voter sentiment towards the UDF. He also addressed concerns about potential seat adjustments with other parties, stating discussions are ongoing and will be finalized soon.
