Thiruvananthapuram: With stalemate continuing on the question of Opposition Leader V. S. Achuthanandan’s candidature, the decision is now in politburo’s court.
Sources said while Mr Achuthanandan is not averse to contesting the forthcoming Assembly polls which he conveyed to party general secretary Sitaram Yechury, he wants a categorical assurance from the central leadership about his future, post-elections. The veteran leader does not want to be sidelined after the polls.
The contentious issue which the state committee may find difficult to resolve, will now be decided by the politburo. Though the central leadership would elicit the views of the state committee members at the next meeting scheduled to be held later this month, the matter would ultimately be decided by politburo members.
Sources said Mr Achuthanandan does not want to be CPM’s “L K Advani” who after winning the Parliament elections, continues to be jobless. The veteran leader who is active at 93, is not prepared to become part of a ‘marg darshak mandal.’
Sources said Mr Achuthanandan wants the matter discussed and decided ahead of polls. Though a section of state leadership is opposed to Mr Achuthanandan putting conditionality for contesting the polls, the veteran’s is in no mood to relent. “It is better if these issues are settled before the polls. Just imagine what will happen if he were to be sidelined after the LDF victory. That would amount to betrayal not only of the veteran leader but also the electorate,” said a close confidante.
Manwhile, the central leadership is caught in dicey situation. With CPM’s influence as a national party diminishing and Sangh Parivar now targeting the Left like never before, the central leadership is not prepared to risk Kerala. For the CPM leadership it is a prestigious battle that has to be won at any cost to stay relevant in national politics.
Sources said the central leadership has advised the state leaders not to exacerbate the issue ahead of the crucial polls. It is hopeful of coming out with a workable formula which would acceptable to all.
