Kerala Congress (J) expects due recognition for P.J. Joseph in UDF govt, says Mons Joseph

Keralam Water Resources Minister and Kerala Congress (J) leader Mons Joseph on Friday (October 2, 2026) said his party expects its chairman P.J. Joseph to be given a position in the government, while stressing the need for collective consultations within the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF).

Speaking to reporters in Kottauam after the State government’s Cabinet-rank appointments of IUML leader M.K. Muneer as chairman of the Administrative Reforms Commission and Forward Bloc leader G. Devarajan as Keralam’s special representative in New Delhi, Mons Joseph said discussions on other appointments were yet to begin with coalition partners.

He said he would take up the matter with the Chief Minister, adding that even appointments of Congress leaders have not been finalised.

“Regarding administrative matters, positions haven’t been publicly finalised yet. These include those of the Congress Party, they are yet to be finalised. So, as a leader of the Kerala Congress and as a leader of the UDF, our expectation is that P.J. Joseph should receive due recognition,” he said.

Mons Joseph said Kerala Congress (J) was “not in a hurry to secure positions” and that there was sufficient time for discussions.

“There is time for discussions. The Chief Minister has clarified that. He stated that discussions will be held with everyone,” he said.

Referring to UDF convener Adoor Prakash’s criticism that key decisions were being taken without consultations, UDF meetings were not being held and that he was learning about important developments through the media, Mr. Joseph said collective discussions were necessary.

“The Chief Minister has stated that collective discussions will take place. We take the CM at his word. We do not wish to make this a contentious issue,” he said.

He said all constituents should receive due representation and recognition. “We still have time to conduct discussions regarding that,” he added.