Congress Suspends Thrissur Councillor Laly James Over ‘Money for Mayor’ Allegations

THRISSUR: The Congress party has suspended Thrissur Corporation Councillor Laly James following her serious allegations that the party leadership sold the Mayor’s position for money. Laly’s criticism came after she was overlooked in the Thrissur Mayoral election. She alleged that the DCC President accepted money to award the Mayor’s post.

Laly James had told the media that Mayor-designate Dr. Niji Justin and her husband had met AICC leaders with a ‘money box’ and that the party had sidelined her because she did not have money. Laly also alleged the involvement of K.C. Venugopal. Subsequently, the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) took action based on the report from the District Congress Committee.

Laly had come forward with her allegations against the district party leadership immediately after Congress announced Dr. Niji Justin as the Mayor.

Both the Congress leadership and Dr. Niji Justin have dismissed Laly’s allegations as baseless. Niji Justin stated that she is not afraid of controversies and that the party leadership would provide an appropriate response to Laly’s criticisms. She also added that she has been an active party worker for the past 28 years, that positions come and go, and that she has no personal dispute with Laly.