Palakkad Candidate: P.J. Kurien Clarifies Stance on Rahul Mamkootathil After Meeting

KPCC Political Affairs Committee member P.J. Kurien has issued a clarification regarding his earlier statements concerning Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil’s potential candidacy in the upcoming assembly elections. Through a Facebook post, Kurien asserted that he never explicitly stated that Mamkootathil should be barred from contesting on a party ticket. Addressing a query about whether any candidate other than Mamkootathil could secure a victory from Palakkad, Kurien clarified that he had merely affirmed the winning prospects of any candidate fielded by the Congress party.

Earlier, Kurien had reportedly indicated to a television news channel that an alternative candidate might be considered for Palakkad instead of Mamkootathil. This was particularly significant given that Mamkootathil had previously faced disciplinary action from the party and was not formally considered a Congress member at the time. Kurien’s initial remarks were widely interpreted as a potential setback to Mamkootathil’s aspirations to contest from Palakkad once more.

However, the narrative took a turn just hours after Kurien’s interview aired. The two leaders crossed paths at the Mannam Jayanti celebrations, an event held at the Nair Service Society (NSS) headquarters in Changanassery. Visuals of Mamkootathil approaching Kurien and engaging in a brief, cordial conversation quickly went viral across social media platforms, sparking further speculation.

Speaking to the Times of India, Kurien further elaborated on his position. He stated, “My earlier statements to the channel were valid only in the context of the party’s disciplinary action against him. If that action is revoked, Mamkootathil can contest, and the party will make that decision.” He also underscored his belief in providing ample opportunities for “youth and women” within the party structure.

In his television interview, Kurien had also expressed support for Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan’s advocacy for increased representation of women and youth in electoral contests. He had advised veteran leaders to consider stepping aside from contesting elections, instead urging them to leverage their extensive experience to guide and ensure the victory of the United Democratic Front (UDF) by empowering younger candidates.