Kerala's Power Minister Confirms Resignation of Relative Amid Nepotism Allegations

In a recent development in Kerala, Power Minister Sunny Joseph confirmed the resignation of his relative, Benny Thomas, from the position of additional private secretary. This decision comes in the wake of allegations of nepotism from the opposition. Joseph explained that he supported Thomas's appointment due to his good reputation in their hometown. However, following criticism, Thomas chose to resign to avoid further controversy. This incident highlights the ongoing political dynamics and scrutiny surrounding appointments within the government. Read on to discover more about the implications of this resignation and the reactions from various political factions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 8, 2026, 13:13 IST

Resignation to Avoid Controversy

On Monday, Sunny Joseph, the Power Minister of Kerala, announced that his relative resigned from the position of his additional private secretary to sidestep controversy following accusations of nepotism from the opposition. Benny Thomas, a Congress leader, was appointed to this role after the United Democratic Front (UDF) came to power.

In response to the opposition's criticism, Thomas submitted his resignation to the Chief Minister on Sunday. Joseph confirmed this resignation during a press interaction in Kannur.

He stated that after the allegations surfaced, he reviewed the legal aspects of the appointment and found that there are no specific criteria for hiring private staff for ministers. Joseph remarked, 'From a political standpoint, Benny Thomas has a good reputation among the people in his hometown of Ullikal, Kannur. My colleagues in Kannur suggested that he be retained as a private staff member, and I supported this idea.'

He also mentioned that during a meeting of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), a leader expressed concerns about the appointment but later withdrew their objection.

Joseph added, 'No one else raised any issues.' Despite the support he received, Thomas chose to resign due to the controversy surrounding his appointment. Joseph emphasized, 'I needed someone like him as I oversee several important departments, including electricity and environment. I required a trustworthy individual whom I know well and who could assist me in my work.'

When asked if Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan requested Thomas's resignation, Joseph refrained from answering. The UDF had frequently criticized the appointment of relatives in the private staff of ministers during the tenure of the Left Democratic Front (LDF). After the government transition, the LDF criticized the UDF for Thomas's appointment as Joseph's private staff.