LDF Govt Marks 4 Years In Power With Low-Key Celebration, UDF Observes ‘Black Day’ In Protest

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his Left Democratic Front (LDF) government marked the fourth anniversary of their second term in office on Tuesday with a low-key celebration at Cochin International Airport. The event also marked Vijayan's ninth year as chief minister, making him the first in the state to lead a government for two consecutive terms. The cake-cutting ceremony was held at the airport lounge.

Ministers from LDF coalition parties, including Roshy Augustine, K B Ganesh Kumar, K Krishnankutty, K Rajan and Kadannappally Ramachandran, were present.

Industries Minister P Rajeev, a CPI(M) leader from Ernakulam, also attended.

Forest Minister A K Saseendran from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) was absent.

Meanwhile, the opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) observed the day as a "Black Day", criticising the government over various issues.

Vijayan, a veteran CPI(M) leader, first became chief minister in May 2016 and was re-elected in 2021.

Later, in a Facebook post, Vijayan said the current government is a continuation of the previous LDF administration, and together it marks a decade of progress in development and social welfare.

He said the government has been able to fulfil most of the promises made to the people in 2016.

He expressed pride in turning once "impossible" projects into reality and ensuring support for citizens in areas such as housing, food, health, and land.

The chief minister also reflected on the major challenges faced by the state, including floods, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said that during difficult times, some groups stood against the state, while divisive forces tried to create unrest.

However, the people and the government stood together, showing the strength of Kerala's democracy, Vijayan said.

He highlighted that Kerala now leads the country not just in living standards but also as a business-friendly state.

The state has seen major growth in infrastructure, industry, startups, education, health, agriculture, tourism, and welfare schemes. Kerala has also received many national and international awards during this time, the CM said.

As the government enters its fifth year, Vijayan said it draws strength from its achievements and the continued support of the people.

"The sea of people that gathers at every anniversary celebration has become a powerful affirmation that this government will continue," he said.

The chief minister said with the trust, support, energy, and inspiration given by the people, the government remains committed to keeping its promises.

"On this anniversary, we express our heartfelt gratitude to the people. Salutations to the beloved citizens," he said. 

(This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

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