The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has expressed strong displeasure over the Congress’s delay in announcing the Chief Minister following the United Democratic Front (UDF)’s landslide victory in the Assembly elections.

More than a week after the results were declared on May 4, the Congress is yet to arrive at a consensus on who should lead the new government.

Speaking here on Monday, IUML district general secretary P. Abdul Hameed said the prolonged delay in selecting the Chief Minister, coupled with the tussle over the top Cabinet post, had dimmed the shine of the UDF’s emphatic victory in the State.

“The situation has brought embarrassment to the UDF. People are beginning to ask why they voted for the alliance,” Mr. Hameed said. He added that public disappointment over the developments was becoming increasingly evident. “People are openly expressing their dissatisfaction to us. Questions are being raised from all quarters,” he said.

According to Mr. Hameed, the issue has become a subject of widespread discussion and ridicule in public spaces. “Wherever you go, people are talking about it: at street corners, marriage functions and even at funerals,” he said.

The IUML leader acknowledged that several MLA-designates were finding it difficult to handle the growing public discontent. He said receptions organised for newly elected representatives were witnessing poor public participation. “The sole reason is the delay in choosing the Chief Minister,” he said.

Mr. Hameed also criticised the Congress leadership for attempting to justify the delay by pointing to the time available until May 23 or by comparing it with the BJP’s delay in selecting a Chief Minister in Delhi.

“Such explanations may work elsewhere, but not in Kerala. People here are politically informed and highly engaged. They understand exactly what is happening. You cannot convince them with such excuses,” he said.

Highlighting the IUML’s electoral preparations in Malappuram, Mr. Hameed said the party had begun groundwork much ahead of others and had accurately predicted a clean sweep in the district.

“We had predicted victory in all 16 seats. We had also foreseen the defeat of V. Abdurahiman and K.T. Jaleel. The UDF’s sterling victory was the result of the tireless efforts of our party workers. But the ongoing squabble is now taking the sheen off that glorious achievement,” he said.