Upcoming govt in Kerala: Kunhalikutty, Shaji among 5 names in IUML ministerial lineup, say sources

Malappuram: A consensus has been reached within the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) on ministerial positions in the upcoming Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government, according to sources.

The Congress ally is expected to seek five ministerial posts in the new government. The Congress position on the issue is likely to be important, as discussions on portfolio distribution among coalition partners continue within the front.

The development emerged amid ongoing negotiations and deliberations among allies in the UDF.

Five names finalised, portfolios under discussion

Sources say the IUML has reportedly finalised both the names and proposed portfolios for its ministers. 

The five names in the list are said to be PK Kunhalikutty, PK Basheer, N Shamsudheen, KM Shaji, and VE Abdul Gafoor.

According to sources, the tentative portfolio allocation being discussed is: Kunhalikutty – IT and Industries; Shamsudheen – Education; Gafoor – Public Works; Shaji – Local Self Government; Basheer – Minority Welfare and Expatriate Welfare.

The inclusion of Gafoor is described as notable, as he was not part of earlier rounds of discussion. He is the son of former Public Works Minister and IUML leader VK Ebrahimkunju.

An official announcement on the matter is expected on Saturday. 

District-level representation demands surface

Separate demands have also emerged over district representation within the IUML quota.

There is reported pressure for a minister from Kozhikode, where six IUML MLAs have won. The district committee has also raised the demand for representation from the region.

A similar demand has emerged from Kasaragod, according to sources. AKM Ashraf, who won from Manjeshwar, is being considered. The matter is expected to be taken up by the high-level committee.