The CPI(M) does not need to launch all leaders as MLAs or for other positions for live, says CPI(M) veteran M.M. Mani

CPI(M) veteran M.M. Mani predicts LDF's victory, expresses satisfaction with his political journey, and addresses party challenges.

Pushing 82, Mr. Mani, popular as Mani aashan, was billed to contest from Udumbanchola, which has been represented by him for the last two terms, but the Left Democratic Front (LDF) brought back K.K. Jayachandran, who represented it from 2001 to 2016, to retain the seat. Mr. Mani predicts a resounding third consecutive term for the LDF in the Assembly with over 100 seats. As for the Idukki district, he says the Left will improve its tally from the present four to all five.  

He is happy and contented that he has been able to live up to the roles assigned to him by the party from time to time. “I served as an MLA for 10 years and a Minister for five. I have no desire to contest again; Ten years is more than enough. As Electricity Minister, I was able to implement 100% electrification in Kerala. We even brought power to Edamalakkudy, the State’s first tribal panchayat, an arduous task that required laying cables to a very remote settlement. I am happy to retire with my pension,” he told The Hindu in an interview.  

Excerpts below:

In this election, several rebel CPI(M) leaders are contesting against the party. In Devikulam, S. Rajendran is contesting as a BJP candidate, and former minister G. Sudhakaran is contesting as a Congress-supported independent. How do you view this? 

The CPI(M) gave S. Rajendran every opportunity. The party made him MLA thrice after he was made the District Panchayat President. Despite this, he demanded another term, which the party denied. We were aware that he would lose another term. What he is doing now smacks of ingratitude and maleficence.  

S. Rajendran claims that Tamil-speaking leaders are being sidelined within the CPI(M). Is there any truth in this?