CPI(M) to pick new General Secretary in April, Mohammed Salim and M. A. Baby lead race

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has decided that the selection of its next General Secretary will be finalized at the Party Congress in April, scheduled to be held in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. This decision comes after the sudden demise of Sitaram Yechury, leaving the party’s top leadership post vacant. The process of choosing his successor has seen discussions within various state units, with Bengal and Kerala emerging as key players in the selection.

Two primary contenders have been identified—Mohammed Salim from West Bengal and M. A. Baby from Kerala. According to party sources, there is no opposition within the Bengal unit to Salim’s name, while the Kerala unit remains divided on Baby’s candidature. A senior Bengal leader stated that Salim’s elevation could strengthen the state’s influence within the party’s central leadership. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin has sent an invitation to Salim, which has drawn attention in political circles.

CPI(M) has never had a minority or a woman as its General Secretary. With Salim and Baby both belonging to minority communities, the upcoming Party Congress could mark a historic moment for the party. The final decision will be taken during the April session, where delegates from different state units will deliberate and vote on the next leader. Party sources indicate that leadership stability and national political strategies will be key factors in the decision-making process.