Kottayam: Mr C.F. Thomas, deputy chairman of Kerala Congress (M), is disenchanted with the party leadership over its latest love towards the LDF. He has made his displeasure clear by abstaining from the parliamentary party meeting on Monday.
It was also after much prodding by chairman K.M. Mani that he attended the meeting held at Mr Mani’s residence on Saturday last. It may be recalled that he has been a close confidant of Mr Mani for more than three decades.
Mr Thomas told DC that Mr Mani’s move to join the LDF was never discussed in any party forums.
“If any such proposal is discussed in the party, I will make my stand clear,” he said. The parliamentary party leaders, who participated in Monday's meeting, had wanted further discussions in the presence of Mr Thomas.
An office-bearer of the party told DC that Mr Thomas and other leaders were against the oneupmanship of KC(M) vice-chairman Jose K. Mani whom they believe was behind the move to join hands with the LDF in the Kottayam district panchayat elections. Sources said Mr Thomas opposed the move over other considerations also.
Former Youth Front (M) leader Job Michael had staked his claim for the Changanassery Assembly seat in the last elections, and Mr Thomas was given the seat as a result of last-minute discussions. He feels that he may not get the seat next time if he is with the KC(M).
