Thiruvananthapuram: On the eve of taking over as Kerala chief minister, Communist Party of India Marxist (CPM) politburo member, Pinarayi Vijayan said he would be leading a “people’s government”.
The 72-year-old had a hectic schedule on Tuesday as he called on more leaders including nonagenarian communist leader, K.R. Gowriamma, and sought to put finishing touches to the composition of his ministry.
“The government that takes oath and comes to power on Wednesday will be everyone’s government. In this matter, there will be no differences based on religion, caste or political party affiliation. It is the people’s cooperation that strengthens democracy. The society must also understand this”, the chief minister-designate said on Tuesday.
Vijayan also sprang a surprise on journalists, distributing sweets and announcing that Tuesday was his real birthday and not the day shown in the official records.
Vijayan gave a hint about his plans for a strong stand against corruption by stating that “some people are likely to go around saying they are close to me. Beware of them; they don’t seem to know my style”.
Meanwhile, former chief minister Oommen Chandy said finance minister-designate T.M. Thomas Isaac would know whether the treasury was empty or not after he took office. Chandy was responding to Isaac’s comment the state treasury was empty and the new government would face “serious challenges” owing to this.
Industry circles in Kerala are optimistic about the new government.
V.K. Mathews, chairman of Nasscom’s regional council told Gulf News, “Pinarayi Vijayan has sent the right vibes by meeting industry circles. He has displayed the right body language and has already been known as a good administrator”.
The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday evening at the Central Stadium in the state capital.
The venue has been chosen for its larger carrying capacity, compared to the lawns of the Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the state governor.
CPM general secretary, Sitaram Yechury and politburo member Prakash Karat are among those expected at Wednesday’s oath-taking ceremony.
