If we look at UDF, there are four Congress leaders from the Nair community vying to become CM. On the other side is a powerful leader like Pinarayi. Why should the Ezhava community shift its loyalty?

Everyone has ambition and not all wishes come true. Ultimately, the people decide who should become the CM.

Were you picked as the UDF convener as you are an Ezhava representative in the Congress?

I don’t think I was made the convener because I’m an Ezhava.

You say the community background didn’t play a role?

While making a decision, the party listens to all. The Congress is a democratic party and has its own decision, which is above caste or creed.

But the Leader of Opposition has said all communities were given due representation in the reorganisation…

There’s nothing wrong in what he said. In my case, I was given a responsibility because of my experience.

It’s generally understood that there is no UDF without the Muslim League. While IUML keeps growing, why has the Congress’ growth stunted?

If the Congress organisational growth happens, then this situation will change. The League is protecting their seats. The Congress too should focus on its organisational activities.

Do you agree that there’s no UDF without the League?

The League is a major constituent of UDF. After the Congress, they are the main partners.

The League has been saying they deserve 30 seats. Will you agree?

They can ask for that. The Congress will raise its demand. But all demands cannot be met. Everyone knows that.

There are reports the League has categorically told the Congress it would leave UDF if the front loses another election…

Such a question is irrelevant. We are coming to power this time.

But this was said in 2021 as well…

The second Pinarayi Vijayan government came to power because of BJP help. While comparing vote shares of 2016 and 2021 elections, we can assume that BJP votes went to CPM. This was due to an understanding between Pinarayi and the BJP leadership.

Can’t that happen in 2026 as well?

We are now capable of defending the CPM and the BJP.

Are any efforts under way to bring back those who left UDF, including the Kerala Congress?

Certainly. Discussions will be held with those who have distanced themselves from UDF. We’re committed to rebuilding the alliance and regaining people’s trust. We definitely hope the Kerala Congress rejoins UDF.

Many former UDF leaders have joined BJP. What’s your take?

BJP is using government agencies, like the ED, to pressurise and blackmail leaders into switching sides. It’s all about survival. Unfortunately, this strategy has worked across the nation.

Satheesan had claimed the Munambam issue could be resolved in 10 minutes. Nothing happened…

CPM failed to act. They could have resolved the issue with a single government order. But they didn’t take any initiative. The Muslim League has been clear: those residing on waqf land in Munambam will not be evicted under any circumstance.

The Congress has close ties with the Muslim League and other Muslim outfits. Why can’t you take Muslim outfits into confidence and get the case withdrawn?

The Muslim League had intervened in the issue. The case by the outfit is before the court.

When the leader of opposition says it can be solved in 10 minutes, aren’t the people wise enough to see through this?

If he has said so, there will be a valid reason behind it (smiles).