KC-M rebels meet CPI-M leaders; discuss cooperation in Kerala polls

Thiruvananthapuram: A day after walking out of the Kerala Congress (M), the three key rebel leaders on Friday met CPI-M leaders to explore the possibility of co-operation with the Left Democratic Front in the coming Assembly polls.

Former MP Francis George, Dr KC Joseph and Antony Raju, both former MLAs, who left the KC-M, a constituent of ruling Congress-led UDF, held talks with CPI-M state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, politburo member Pinarayi Vijayan and LDF convener Vaikom Viswam.

Confirming the meeting, Balakrishanan told reporters that LDF liaision committee would take a final decision on how to associate and co-operate with the former KC-M leaders.

LDF will discuss and finalise what stand should be taken, Balakrishnan said.

Stating that CPI-M led LDF was ready to face the polls, Balakrishnan said the party expects to announce its list of candidates by March 20.

"The plan is to announce the list of candidates of all the constituents of the Front," he said.

Asked whether there was any confusion on the candidature of party veteran and Opposition leader VS Achuthanandan, Balakrishnan said the party never discussed the candidature of any particular leader.

It will take a decision only after discussing with all the candidates of the party and LDF, he said.

The party was of the opinion that the poll date of May 16 would give them more time. "We do not have to hurry on many matters," he said.