Thiruvananthapuram: Maria Oommen, elder daughter of former chief minister Oommen Chandy, was considered by Congress leadership as a potential candidate during the candidate selection process for the assembly elections. This was disclosed by UDF convenor Adoor Prakash on Sunday.Prakash made the revelation while speaking at the election convention of UDF candidate Satheesh Kochuparambil in Konni. According to him, discussions took place regarding fielding Maria as a candidate, but circumstances ultimately led to a different decision. His remarks came as Maria arrived on stage during the event. Earlier, her brother Chandy Oommen had dismissed reports regarding Maria’s candidature, stating that the party alone decides who contests elections. However, there were indications that he was unhappy with moves to consider her for Chengannur constituency. Reports also suggested that he conveyed to the leadership that he would resign if Maria was fielded. There were reports that Chandy communicated his position to senior leaders V D Satheesan and K C Venugopal. He reportedly argued that having two members from the same family contesting simultaneously would go against the political values upheld by Oommen Chandy. He is also said to have expressed willingness to withdraw from Puthuppally if Maria chose to enter the fray. Although she is not contesting the elections, Maria has been actively campaigning for UDF candidates and has been receiving a warm response from the public across constituencies. Meanwhile, her husband is contesting as a candidate of Twenty20. Maria has clarified that their political views are different. In a recent media interview, she also said that her brother is following in their father’s footsteps, which gives her confidence.
