'People are real masters': Antony urges UDF to learn from CPI(M) setback, prioritise governance

Thiruvananthapuram | Veteran Congress leader A K Antony on Tuesday urged the UDF leadership to govern with humility and heed the people's mandate, warning against repeating the "mistakes" of the CPI (M)-led Left government.

Speaking to reporters, he stressed that "people are the real masters" and said leaders must work with a clear understanding of public sentiment and expectations.

He cautioned that the errors committed by the Marxist party should not be replicated by the UDF.

The senior leader also advised the incoming dispensation to refrain from adopting populist measures and instead prioritise improving the state's financial health.

"The priority of the new government should be to strengthen the economic condition of the state," he said.

Antony further reminded the leadership to honour the promises made to the people during the election campaign and ensure their proper implementation.

Calling for introspection within the CPI(M), he said the party should analyse its setbacks, correct its mistakes, and make a comeback.

"The Congress and UDF workers should also learn from the massive setback suffered by the Marxist party. They must always see the people as their masters," he added.

On the question of the chief ministership, Antony said he had regard for all three leaders (VD Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala, KC Venugopal) whose names are doing the rounds.

"All three are capable," he said, noting that such discussions over the post have occurred in the past as well.

"Such discussions are natural. The high command will take an appropriate decision after consulting everyone," he added.