Thrissur (Keralam) | Kerala Congress (Mani) chairman Jose K Mani on Thursday said that differences between the CPI(M) and CPI over the Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Keralam Assembly should be settled through discussions, and that the LDF's election defeat should be examined closely.

Kerala Congress (Mani) is the third-largest constituent of the CPI (M)-led LDF.

Speaking at a press conference held as part of a party event, Mani said the issue of the deputy Leader of the Opposition was not one to be discussed in a public platform, but was being done so.

"Whether it is precedent or criteria, let them settle it by discussion. We have no objection to whatever decision they take," he said.

He said the 2026 Assembly election result, which went against the LDF, should be examined.

"If a large number of people have voted against the LDF, it is not enough to treat the surface skin; we must examine what lies inside and understand it," he said.

Mani said his party had only one stand and had no plans to leave the LDF.

"After being expelled from the UDF, the Kerala Congress Party became a part of the LDF. Being a part of the LDF, it remains part of the LDF. Kerala Congress is with it through its highs, lows, failures, and victories. There is no change in that," he said.

Meanwhile, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam told reporters that the matter would be discussed between the two Left parties.

He said the general secretaries of both parties could also discuss the issue if required.

Viswam said the CPI would always stand with the LDF.

"LDF is CPI's child. CPI is a key part of the LDF," he said.