Diplomatic Outreach: Satheesan Calls on Vijayan, Chats Over a Cup of Tea

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
In one of the most politically symbolic moments in recent Kerala politics, Chief Minister designate, V.D. Satheesan, on Friday drove to the residence of his predecessor and long time political adversary Pinarayi Vijayan, marking a dramatic reversal of roles in the state’s power corridors.

For nearly a decade, Vijayan occupied the state’s top office while Satheesan led the Opposition Benches through some of the fiercest political battles in the Assembly.

Now, with the Congress-led UDF returning to power, the equations have turned, with Satheesan preparing to take charge as Chief Minister while Vijayan moves into the post of Leader of Opposition for the first time in his political career.

The meeting at Vijayan’s now rented residence naturally became the most watched political event of the day.

Satheesan was received by Vijayan, his wife Kamala, daughter Veena and family members.

After exchanging pleasantries, the two leaders sat down for a cup of green tea in what observers described as a relaxed and cordial interaction despite years of bitter political rivalry.

Emerging after the meeting, Satheesan made it clear that the visit was both personal and political.

“I came to see him as he is the senior most Kerala politician and was Chief Minister for a decade and led his party for long years. I came to seek support as we have to go together for developing Kerala. Governments are a continuing affair and hence everything will be done seeking cooperation. I also invited him for our swearing-in,” Satheesan told reporters.

Vijayan, known for his guarded public demeanour, did not elaborate before the media.

Smiling faintly, he merely responded with an “okay, okay” while seeing the incoming Chief Minister off.

The visit to Vijayan’s house formed the centerpiece of Satheesan’s packed day of political courtesy calls and outreach efforts ahead of the new government assuming office.

Earlier, he visited veteran Kerala Congress leader, P.J. Joseph, who recently stepped aside to pave the way for his son’s electoral entry from Thodupuzha.

Satheesan also met the family of late Congress stalwart G. Karthikeyan and held discussions with his wife and son a two-time former legislator K.S. Sabarinathan at their residence.

He later called on Congress MP and UDF convenor, Adoor Prakash before heading to Vijayan’s house.

The day concluded with a visit to senior Congress leader, Ramesh Chennithala, another aspirant for the Chief Minister’s post, in a move seen as an effort to carry every faction along as the new administration prepares to take office on Monday.