Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Sunny Joseph on Monday sought to downplay the debate over the Congress’ chief ministerial face, saying the discussion was being driven by the media and that the All India Congress Committee (AICC) would take a decision at the appropriate time.

Responding to questions on the leadership debate and an advertisement in an English daily reportedly highlighting senior leader Ramesh Chennithala, Mr. Joseph said he had not noticed the advertisement, avoiding further comments. He maintained that the decision on who would be Chief Minister if the Congress-led UDF alliance comes to power would be taken by the AICC and that it would be “accepted by all in the party.”