Pro-Catholic party to join communist coalition in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, May 1, 2017: A political realignment centered on K.M. Mani’s Kerala Congress may be in the offing if former associate Scaria Thomas’s efforts bear fruit.

A member of CPM-led Left Democratic Front, Thomas wants to expand his sphere of influence within the ruling front by joining forces with Mani and Kerala Congress (Jacob) leader Johny Nellore. The proposed alliance has the backing of a section of the Catholic Church.

Thomas wants to unite various factions of the Kerala Congress by raising farmers’ issue as a mooting point. The collective plans to ensure the support of associations such as Catholic Congress. Other Kerala Congress leaders like P.C. George, Francis George and P.C. Thomas may not find a place in the possible alignment.

The CPM leaders are aware of the behind-the-scene parleys but Mani may face stiff resistance from alliance partner CPI. Thomas tries to justify Mani’s entrance to the LDF as the former minister was not found guilty of corruption by any court.

Mani would have little problem in aligning with the LDF at a time when he is isolated by A.K. Antony, Oommen Chandy and other leaders in the Congress, Thomas feels.

Johny Nellore has also held talks with Thomas but not everyone in his party is in favor of a shift of loyalty. Similar reservations have been shown by a section of the Mani faction but they are willing to form a broader alliance to highlight farmers’ issues.

– manorama online