IUML backs Satheesan as CM, cites public sentiment

Kozhikode: IUML has backed opposition leader V D Satheesan as a potential chief ministerial candidate in the wake of opinion polls projecting a victory for UDF, saying that the preference echoed in surveys reflects prevailing public sentiment. Responding to questions on the trend seen in exit polls, IUML state president Panakkad Sadikali Shihab Thangal said people appeared to have expressed their opinion in favour of Satheesan. He was addressing reporters in Malappuram on Thursday."Yes, it might be like that. People would have expressed their opinion in that manner," said Thangal when reporters asked whether the preference for Satheesan in exit poll surveys was an expression of public opinion.When reporters asked whether UDF would factor in this public sentiment while deciding on the CM's post, Thangal said the front has always taken such views into account. "It is for the Congress high command to take a call and I believe they will do so in line with public sentiment," he said.He said most exit polls predicted a UDF win and added that the outcome could reflect strong anti-incumbency mood against LDF govt, an undercurrent which he said was evident in 2024 Lok Sabha elections and 2025 local body polls. Thangal expressed confidence over IUML's prospects and said the party, which contested in 27 seats, is likely to win between 20 and 22 seats.On speculation that IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty could be projected as deputy chief minister, Thangal said the party has neither made such a claim nor held discussions on the matter. "We have not staked a claim. IUML will get what it deserves," he said.Responding to criticism by senior CPM leader A K Balan that projecting Kunhalikutty as deputy CM was part of an agenda of Jamaat-e-Islami, Thangal said IUML functions independently and is guided by its long-standing commitment to secularism, democracy and communal harmony.