Thiruvananthapuram: Senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan strongly criticised the ongoing social media discussions over the Chief Minister’s post within the Congress. He said he only feels sympathy for those engaging in such debates and asserted that both the party and the front will move forward united. He added that responsible individuals should not post such content, as it would not benefit the party.

Muraleedharan was responding to discussions triggered by a Facebook post in support of KC Venugopal by K Sudhakaran.

“The UDF faced the election as a united front. All constituent parties have played a huge role. It should not be reduced to any one individual. It is not right for anyone to post in support of particular leaders now. There is no point in making noise over the Chief Minister’s post at this stage. The right decisions will be taken at the right time,” he said.

When asked about social media campaigns backing VD Satheesan and KC Venugopal for the Chief Minister’s post, Muraleedharan replied, “I am repeating what Rahul Gandhi said. When it is time for everyone to dance together, no one should dance solo.”

He reiterated that such posts supporting individual leaders are inappropriate now and that there is a proper procedure to follow. After the election, the parliamentary party leader should be decided in a meeting of MLAs. Once the full results are out, the high command will take a decision. There is no need to create unnecessary noise now, he said.

He clarified that no names have officially come up for the Chief Minister’s post yet and emphasised that the election was fought as “Team UDF.” He noted that the Muslim League, the second-largest constituent in the UDF, is expected to win up to 22 seats and has an important role to play. The high command will guide discussions on the Chief Minister’s post, he said.

Muraleedharan also warned that social media debates are not beneficial to the party and that even those posting such content are aware of it. “Some people are only trying to create confusion. I have only sympathy for them. Such attempts will not work here. The party and the front will remain united. Responsible people should not post such things. If I have a personal opinion, I will express it at the appropriate place—let May 4 get over,” he added.

Following the elections, internal tussles had begun within the UDF over the Chief Minister’s post, with leaders openly supporting VD Satheesan, KC Venugopal, and Ramesh Chennithala on social media. Muraleedharan’s sharp response comes in this context.

Earlier, MP Benny Behanan had written to the high command seeking intervention in the growing debate within the UDF over the Chief Minister’s post.