A. Suresh likely to be UDF candidate in Malampuzha

A. Suresh, former personal assistant to the late communist leader V.S. Achuthanandan, is reportedly considering contesting against the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] on the United Democratic Front (UDF) ticket in Malampuzha.

UDF leaders have opened discussions with Mr. Suresh and are said to have extended an invitation for him to join the front. Speaking on the matter, Mr. Suresh said he had shared his views with the UDF leadership and that it was now up to the front to decide.

‘Further suprises’

Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan welcomed Mr. Suresh into the UDF fold. He said that even the steadfast comrades of Achuthanandan, a symbol of Kerala’s Leftist movement, were parting ways with the CPI(M). Mr. Satheesan also hinted that further surprises could be expected in the coming days.

Mr. Suresh reiterated that he had faced extreme humiliation within the CPI(M). Responding to the developments, CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan said that Mr. Suresh had been expelled from the party and that the decision would not be reconsidered. He said Mr. Suresh would not be readmitted despite repeated appeals.

Mr. Govindan said that Mr. Suresh’s departure would not affect the CPI(M) vote share in Malampuzha. “The party’s votes are safe,” he said.

Commenting on film actor Prem Kumar, who was removed as chairperson of the Kerala State Chalachithra Academy, Mr. Govindan said that he was not a party member. “The party will try to reconcile with him, but if he chooses to stay away, there is nothing more we can do,” he said.