The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church on Monday expressed reservations over the omission of Chandy Oommen, legislator from Puthuppally, from the newly constituted State Cabinet by the United Democratic Front.

According to Yuhanon Mar Diascoros, Metropolitan and head of the Church’s media division, Mr. Oommen was not merely a member of the Orthodox Church but a young leader who secured a decisive majority after running a distinct and focused election campaign. “He carried out the responsibility entrusted to him effectively. The reason for not making him a Minister is not known. The public is also asking this question. People expected that Chandy Oommen would become a Minister. It appears that the leadership has not been able to properly understand the popular will in this regard. In the case of the Chief Minister, however, it was the popular will that was reflected. ,” the Metropolitan said.

He further noted that constituencies in Kottayam, Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts, which were earlier with the LDF, were brought back to the UDF by the people. However, he said, the region received only one ministerial post and the Speaker’s position in Cabinet representation. Senior political leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, he added, also deserved a ministerial post.

At the same time, the Metropolitan clarified that the Orthodox Church was not disappointed over the lack of representation in the Cabinet. “Our country has different religions, churches and communities. If we start demanding ministerial posts for all of them, all 140 MLAs would have to be made Ministers,” he remarked.

On the dispute within the Malankara Church, he said court verdicts must be implemented in their true spirit. “The reason why issues continue is because governments are not taking steps to implement court orders. The new government is expected to ensure that the essence of the judgment is upheld and to find a balanced approach that does not harm either side, bringing both groups together,” he added.

Representatives of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church attended the swearing-in ceremony of the UDF government held in Thiruvananthapuram. Those present at the function included Metropolitans Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, Gabriel Mar Gregorios and Geevarghese Mar Yulios, among others.