CPI reiterates its demand for Deputy Opposition Leader’s post in Kerala Assembly

The deadlock between the CPI and CPI-M over the Deputy Leader of the Opposition’s post in the Kerala Assembly remains unresolved with CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam stating that granting the position to his party is essential for maintaining Left Democratic Front (LDF) unity.

Addressing a gathering here on Sunday, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam declared that the party would not back down from its demand for the post. He countered assertions by senior CPI-M leader and current Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, who recently stated that the matter was “closed”.
He rejected the claims that the CPI went public prematurely, stating the party first sent a formal letter first and only spoke out after receiving a reply. He said the post of Deputy Leader of the Opposition rightfully belongs to the CPI.

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He further said his party deserved more responsibility within the Opposition, noting that traditional conventions can be modified if necessary. He emphasized that maintaining Left Democratic Front (LDF) unity is far more important than strictly following established traditions.
The CPI is pressing its demands despite Opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan ruling out revisions to the current system. Vijayan emphasized that the LDF follows long-standing guidelines and has no plans to modify them. He made it clear that the post of the Leader of Opposition and Deputy Leader of Opposition are not matters of discussion in the LDF.