Alappuzha: Former Kerala minister G Sudhakaran announced on Thursday that he will contest the Ambalappuzha constituency as an independent candidate. The veteran leader, who has been with the CPM for 63 years, clarified his position following speculation that he might break away from the party, which leads the ruling LDF in Kerala.

Speaking at a press conference at his residence, Sudhakaran said he would not seek anyone’s support and has not discussed contesting with any political party or the opposition UDF. “No party leaders approached me to persuade or assign any special task,” he added.

Leaving party membership but not ideals

Sudhakaran emphasised that, although he has left the party’s primary membership, he has not abandoned the communist ideals or the party’s core principles. “I have no intention of criticising the party or rejecting its constitution. I will continue as a sympathiser. I have only formally ended my association with the organisation,” he said.

He also stressed that reports circulating about him are false. “The news being spread about me is fake,” he stated firmly.

Reflections on public service

During the press conference, Sudhakaran reflected on his long political career and highlighted his contributions. He recalled the construction of the Perumbalam bridge during his tenure as public works minister, noting that it had been featured multiple times in the party mouthpiece Deshabhimani, yet his name was never mentioned. He accused certain unnamed individuals, rather than editors, of deliberately omitting his contributions. “It was not the editors, but some others there,” he remarked.

With this move, political observers believe Sudhakaran effectively positions himself as a rebel within the party. However, in the presser, he has not indicated that; he maintained he will contest independently.

Press conference held despite attempts to stop it

Sudhakaran has been at odds with the party leadership for some time. He had earlier announced that he would hold the press conference at 11 am on Thursday.

The district leadership of the CPM had reportedly attempted to prevent the meeting with the media, but the effort was unsuccessful. 

Party leaders meet Sudhakaran after emergency meeting

On Wednesday evening, an emergency meeting of the district secretariat was convened following instructions from the state leadership.

After the meeting, members of the secretariat visited Sudhakaran at his residence under the leadership of central committee member CS Sujatha.

District secretary R Naser and MLAs H Salam and PP Chitharanjan did not take part in the visit.

There were also reports that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan telephoned Sudhakaran.