IUML demands fifth ministerial post

Thiruvananthapuram: IUML is strongly pitching on their demand that when Anoop Jacob takes oath as new minister, the fifth minister from IUML should also be sworn in. The Congress has denied the demand. IUML is adamant that Manjalamkuzhy Ali must be given a ministerial post and it need not be the portfolio of other allies but will manage with urban ministry or any other department within the IUML.


IUML said that they can't back out from the demand as the fifth ministerial post was announced by IUML leader Panakkad Hyderali Shibah Thangal himself. Minister PK Kunhalikutty informed the same to chief minister, KPCC president and UDF convener.


Even before results of Piravom were out, Kunhalikutty pressed the demand before UDF leadership. Congress leadership made it clear that when there are allegations of the cabinet being centered around minorities, Anoop and Ali cannot be inducted as ministers at the same time. 


Congress also offered the post as Norka chairman with cabinet rank to IUML. At present the chief minister is Norka chairman.