Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has clarified his stand on internal issues within the Communist Party of India (CPM). He was speaking in an interview with 'Mathrubhumi News' as part of the election campaign.

Referring to G Sudhakaran, an Independent candidate from Ambalappuzha and a former CPM leader, the Chief Minister said the rift with the party may have stemmed from a misunderstanding. He said leaders leaving the party are viewed with serious concern. "Those who have worked for the party for years should not leave for any positions or posts," he added.

He said such rebel moves are a new trend within the party. "It is not just personal betrayal, but in some cases, individuals becoming tools in the hands of opponents," he said.

On Sudhakaran’s case, the Chief Minister said the party had not shown any neglect. "The age limit rule applies to everyone, including him. Sudhakaran may have misunderstood this as neglect," he said. He added that Sudhakaran’s decision appeared to be a deliberate one.

The Chief Minister said there have always been betrayers. However, others have not followed their example. "Instead, new members have joined the party and stood by it," he said.

He said Sudhakaran’s move was driven by the desire for position. "The complaint," he said, "was that no one proposed his name as a candidate," Vijayan said.

He questioned whether such dissatisfaction justifies leaving the party and aligning with rivals.

Speaking on the political situation in the state, Vijayan reiterated that there is no anti-incumbency sentiment in Kerala. He said people stood united during multiple crises. "The state managed to overcome challenges despite not receiving adequate support from the Centre," he said.

He said people will not accept calls for a change in government. He expressed confidence that the party will secure a strong victory in the upcoming election.