VD Satheesan vows political exile if UDF fails to secure majority in Kerala polls

Angamaly: A day after SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan launched a scathing attack on him, Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan on Monday responded with a firm rebuttal, declaring he would go into political exile if the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) fails to secure a clear majority in the next Kerala Assembly elections.

Speaking to the media in Angamaly, Satheesan said, “I don’t know on whose behalf he is speaking, and I’m not interested in engaging in a personal quarrel. But amid all this, he did say one truth -- that if the UDF wins 98 seats, he will resign. That means he acknowledges we will reach at least 97.”

While taking a jibe at Natesan, Satheesan also acknowledged him as a seasoned political observer in Kerala. “He believes we will come very close to a majority. We will work hard and win more than 100 seats. But I won’t challenge him. If we fail to bring the UDF back to power with a clear mandate, I will go into political exile. You won’t see me again.”

Despite his strong words, Satheesan urged Natesan not to step down, even if the UDF surpasses the 100-seat mark.

“Let him remain in his post for life. But I will stick to my word,” he said.

Natesan had sharply criticised Satheesan during an SNDP Yogam event near Muvattupuzha, describing him as "the worst Opposition leader" and accusing him of being anti-Ezhava. He also claimed Satheesan was unfit to lead the UDF or serve as chief minister, alleging that he lacked the ability to manage crises effectively.

Responding to the criticism, Satheesan stated, “I have never said a single harsh word about Vellappally. I am someone who upholds the values of Sree Narayana Guru. But if anyone in Kerala spreads a message of hatred, the UDF will resist it.”

Taking a swipe at the ruling CPI(M), Satheesan added, “We won’t issue statements like the CPI(M) does -- even the person the statement is written for may not recognise it. Team UDF stands united against both minority and majority communalism.”

He further asserted that the UDF does not rely on communal politics to seek votes.

“We are seeking votes on the promise of rescuing Kerala from its current decline. At the appropriate time, we will unveil our vision and roadmap to restore the state, and we will return to power with a clear majority,” he said.

Reiterating his point, Satheesan said the UDF opposes communal hatred -- not any particular individual or community. “We maintain cordial relations with all communities. I won’t stoop to the level of language used against me. I hold deep respect for the office I represent.”

Referring to Natesan’s age, Satheesan concluded, “He is nearly 90 years old. It would be indecent of me to speak ill of such an elderly person.”