IUML Criticises Congress for Delay in Kerala Chief Minister Announcement

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has voiced its strong dissatisfaction regarding the Congress party's delay in appointing a Chief Minister following a decisive victory in the recent Assembly elections in Kerala. More than a week has passed since the results were made public on May 4, yet Congress has not reached a decision on the leadership of the new government.

P. Abdul Hameed, the IUML district general secretary, articulated that the extended hesitation regarding the Chief Minister's selection and the ensuing disputes over key Cabinet positions have diminished the significance of the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) electoral success. He stated that "the situation has brought embarrassment to the UDF" and expressed concern that public sentiment is changing as people begin to question their support for the alliance.

Hameed further noted that public discontent regarding the delay is manifesting itself, with citizens openly expressing dissatisfaction with the situation. He remarked on the topic's increasing prevalence in casual conversations, stating, "Wherever you go, people are talking about it: at street corners, marriage functions and even at funerals."

The IUML leader highlighted that some newly elected members of the Legislative Assembly are struggling to address the rising public discomfort. Receptions meant to celebrate their electoral victories are reportedly seeing a decline in attendance, attributed to the ongoing delay in naming the Chief Minister.

Hameed directed criticism towards the Congress leadership for attempting to rationalise the postponement by referencing the timeline until May 23 or drawing parallels with delays experienced by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in selecting a Chief Minister in Delhi. He commented, "Such explanations may work elsewhere, but not in Kerala. People here are politically informed and highly engaged. They understand exactly what is happening. You cannot convince them with such excuses."

Amidst this political quagmire, Hameed reiterated that the IUML had conducted extensive groundwork well ahead of others during the electoral preparations in Malappuram. He claimed that the party had accurately predicted a clean sweep in the district, stating, "We had predicted victory in all 16 seats. We had also foreseen the defeat of V. Abdurahiman and K.T. Jaleel."

Hameed credited the UDF’s impressive victory to the relentless efforts of IUML party workers. However, he cautioned that the current squabbles within the UDF were overshadowing this significant achievement.