Thiruvananthapuram: KB Ganesh Kumar’s ministerial position is once again in jeopardy. Following the High Court’s rejection of Ganesh Kumar’s plea to dismiss the conspiracy charges in the solar case, the CPI(M) is reevaluating the ethical considerations surrounding ministerial appointments. The court’s remarks in the case are also likely to backfire on Ganesh Kumar.
There was already a difference of opinion within the CPI(M) against the LDF’s previous understanding that KB Ganesh Kumar could be given a ministerial post in the cabinet reshuffle. Despite these differences, it was decided to proceed in order to avoid any misunderstanding. Now, with the High Court’s rejection of Ganesh Kumar’s appeal to dismiss the conspiracy case against him on former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in the solar case, discussions about the ministerial appointment are resurfacing.
Some CPI(M) leaders are concerned that the court’s reference to the need to prove honesty will turn also into a moral issue. They anticipate that the opposition will exploit the public’s frustration over a person involved in a conspiracy against Oommen Chandy being appointed as a minister when the Lok Sabha elections are to happen. The CPI(M) is of the opinion that this might adversely affect its electoral prospects.
The CPI(M) also fears that excluding Ganesh Kumar could deteriorate its relationship with the NSS. They are exploring the possibility of overcoming this situation by appointing PS Prashanth, a member of the Nair community, as the president of the Devaswom Board.
A cabinet reshuffle is likely to take place following the council of ministers’ constituency tours.
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