Pressure is mounting on former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy to continue as the Chairman of the United Democratic Front (UDF). 

 

At the leadership meet on Wednesday, the constituents of the UDF unanimously demanded Chandy to continue to retain his position as the chairman of the front. But the former Chief Minister stood firm on his decision not to take up any position. 

 

As per the custom, the parliamentary party leader of the front will be the chairman of the UDF. The practice should continue and hence, Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala should take up the post of the chairman, Chandy reportedly said at the meeting. 

 

After the meeting, Chennithala told reporters that Chandy was hesitant on the proposal to continue as the chairman of the UDF. The Congress High Command will take a final decision on the matter and an official announcement will be made after receiving confirmation from All India Congress Committee (AICC), he said. 

 

 Meanwhile, there are reports that Chandy has finally agreed to retain the post, bowing to the pressure from the party and the front. Earlier, the former Chief Minister had refused to take up the position of the Leader of Opposition and proposed Chennithala for the post. 

 
Taking responsibility for UDF's poll defeat in the assembly elections,  Chandy had made it clear that he will not take up any party responsibilities, but would remain active in public life.