THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A section of Kerala Congress leaders close to P.J. Joseph has held preliminary discussions with the CPM leadership expressing the desire to be part of the opposition LDF.
The discussions were held in the backdrop of growing differences within the Kerala Congress between K M Mani and P J Joseph led groups. One of the major reasons being pointed out is the sidelining of Joseph group leaders by Mani who is allegedly trying to elevate his son as the top leader.
The chances of some of the leaders crossing over to LDF is not ruled out at this stage. Among leaders from the Joseph group, Dr K. C. Joseph, Francis George and Antony Raju are understood to be keen on leaving UDF keeping in tune with their electoral ambitions which they feel may not materialise under Mani.
Though the CPM has responded positively to the request made by the Joseph group leaders, it has set a precondition. They should first come out of their party for any concrete decision to be taken.
The KC leadership is trying to mollify the disgruntled leaders in order to avert a split in the party. But given the sharp differences that have surfaced within the party i t is going to be a tough task.
The CPM which is making a strong bid to attain power after Assembly elections, is keen on getting more people from the UDF camp. The leadership believes that the entry of more leaders would help increase its electoral prospects in areas which are considered weak for the LDF.
CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said that Joseph group had not held any discussions with the party. The CPM leader said in Delhi that he was not aware whether any other person had held discussions.
Sources said since the discussions were at a preliminary stage, both sides were not keen to publicly acknowledge the negotiations happening between them.
