UDF to meet to discuss resignation of Mani

Thiruvananthapuram: UDF leaders will be here on Monday to discuss the demand for resignation of Finance Minister K. M. Mani in view of adverse remarks from Kerala High Court today.

The Court has declined to amend the Vigilance Court order directing continuation of the vigilance probe against Mr. Mani in the bar-bribery case.  It observed that the continuation of Mr. Mani in office would cast doubts in the minds of common man about the ongoing investigation. The Court recalled the maxim that ‘Caesar’s wife must be above suspicion’.  (The Vigilance Director also came under criticism from the Court).

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that he had already talked to UDF leaders about the High Court verdict. They will meet here on Monday morning to discuss the issue.

The Youth Congress and a few Congress leaders have already demanded resignation of Mr. Mani. Congress is likely to press for resignation of Mr. Mani at the UDF meet. Pressure is mounting on him from other quarters also.

Opposition Leader V. S. Achuthanandan said that not just Mr. Mani, but the ministry itself should resign. The DYFI took out protest march to the Secretariat and burned Mani in effigy.

Mr. Mani told the media that there was conspircy behind the developments. His party leadership would meet tomorrow and discuss the political situation and take decisions.