Thiruvananthapuram: KB Ganesh Kumar and Ramachandran Kadanapalli are likely to assume ministerial posts replacing Ministers Antony Raju and Ahamed Devarkovil. This transition is expected to materialize following discussions and meetings within the Left Front. Reports suggest that the second Pinarayi cabinet, reaching its two-and-a-half-year mark, is set for a reshuffle by November.
This was ascertained by LDF convener E.P. Jayarajan. He affirmed that the cabinet reshuffle will proceed according to the previously established plan. Following the second consecutive LDF election victory, it was determined that after two and a half years, four parties would relinquish their ministerial roles. Jayarajan further clarified that KB Ganesh Kumar possesses all the necessary qualifications to assume a ministerial position.
Jayarajan also clarified that the LDF has scheduled a meeting for September 20th, during which the future programs and initiatives of the Front will be open for discussion.
It appears that both the Chief Minister and the party leadership have expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of certain CPI(M) ministers in the state. While these ministers are not anticipated to be ousted from the cabinet, their portfolios might be changed.
Veena George is likely to be removed from her role as Health Minister, while MB Rajesh may be asked to relinquish control of the Excise Department which is likely to be handed over to VN Vasavan. Despite widespread rumors suggesting A N Shamseer might be relieved from the post of Speaker and made a minister, such a move is unlikely to materialize. It is reported that Minister Saji Cheriyan is likely to be given an additional portfolio.
Even the LDF hints on the cabinet reshuffle is gaining traction, Transport Minister Antony Raju has refuted the reports on the reshuffle. He clarified, “Currently, the LDF government is not involved in any such deliberations. The concept of a mid-term cabinet reshuffle is not unfamiliar, but a decision on this matter will be made at a later time.” The minister emphasized that any such decisions would be made after a thorough assessment of various factors, rather than solely based on individual merits and shortcomings.
Congress leader K Muraleedharan ridiculed the reports about the CPI(M)’s cabinet reshuffle, saying that their efforts to salvage their image are only adding further confusion to the situation. While acknowledging that this is an internal party affair, he also expressed his disapproval of the practice of changing the Assembly Speaker every year, deeming it improper.
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