The Kerala Congress faction led by PJ Joseph formalised its merger with the Kerala Congress led by PC Thomas. In a joint meeting, PJ Joseph was elected as chairman and PC Thomas as working chairman. The meeting also elected new office-bearers that include Mons Joseph (executive chairman), Joy Abraham (secretary general and office in-charge), TU Kuruvila (chief coordinator) and Francis George, Thomas Unniyadan, and Johnny Nellore (deputy chairmen). The party chairman later nominated Graceamma Mathew as senior general secretary.
Meanwhile Francis George voiced his dissent and said that he did not get his due in the organisation. Francis, who did not attend the joint meeting held online, said that he would not be taking up the position of deputy chairman. “The concerns over the party reorganisation have been conveyed to the party chairman and the deputy chairman's post would not be taken up as long as the outstanding issues are settled,” said George. According to sources, George, who had quit as the chairman of the Janadhipathya Kerala Congress, was supposedly upset over being left out as the executive chairman.
Apart from George, other senior leaders also shared their dissatisfaction covertly and overtly indicating that discontent is brewing in the party over the restructuring. Senior leaders Nelloor and Puthussery too are said to be unhappy over their new designations.
Responding to George's comments, the party chairman said the issue would soon be settled through discussions.
