Samastha’s latest moves reflect a cautious balancing approach

The executive meeting of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama held in Kozhikode on Wednesday (September 23, 2026) was closely watched, not for any major decision, but for its possible political implications.

The Samastha is divided over the political ties of some of its leaders and members with the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). In this context, even organisational decisions can have political consequences.

The appointment of P.P. Umer Musliar Koyyode as general secretary, replacing the late K. Alikutty Musliar, is being seen as part of Samastha president Syed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal’s effort to maintain a middle path.

Mr. Thangal has not openly aligned himself with the IUML. However, people close to him say he is keen to avoid confrontation with the party. The choice of Koyyode Ustad, as Mr. Umer Musliar Koyyode is popularly known, appears to fit that approach.