Abin Varkey Refuses National Secretary Post, Voices Discontent

Kochi

Youth Congress leader Abin Varkey, recently appointed as National Secretary, has publicly expressed his displeasure over the role, stating that he would prefer to focus on work in Kerala. He suggested that the party might reconsider its decision and also sought clarification on whether communal considerations influenced the leadership’s choice to overlook him for the state president’s post. Many had considered him a strong candidate for the role, but, to everyone’s surprise, the position went to O J Janeesh.

In the previous Youth Congress election, Abin secured around 1.7 lakh votes, finishing second. He argued that, with elections approaching, it would be more logical for him to be allowed to operate in Kerala.

O J Janeesh was appointed state president, replacing Rahul Mamkootathil, who stepped down following allegations of sexual harassment and a forced abortion claim. The high command’s decision came after two months of internal disputes.

Mamkootathil had originally become president two years ago in an election later invalidated by the Vigilance Court due to irregularities in the voting process. Attempts to promote Abin following Mamkootathil’s resignation, including efforts by Chennithala, did not succeed.

Janeesh is also facing allegations of misappropriating funds collected in Thrissur under the pretext of aiding Wayanad disaster victims, with around 18 lakh rupees reportedly unaccounted for. A Thrissur DCC member filed a complaint with AICC General Secretary Deep Das Munshi. Party sources suggest that, while these controversies are notable, they are largely seen as part of the usual political manoeuvring.