Thiruvananthapuram: “Shri KM Mani was a stalwart of Kerala politics. His impeccable electoral record indicated his deep connect with the citizens of the State. His rich contribution to the state will be remembered. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. RIP,” tweeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the death of the former Kerala finance minister.
The 86-year-old Kerala Congress (M) leader K M Mani who was admitted to a private hospital for chest infection and been kept under close medical observation passed away yesterday. He is survived by his wife and six children.
He has been suffering from COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) for several years and was undergoing treatment at the VPS Lakeshore hospital for pulmonary disease. He breathed his last at 4.57 pm yesterday.
Cutting across party lines, several political leaders condoled the veteran leader’s death. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh said the country has lost a veteran political leader who served the nation, especially Kerala, for his entire life with dedication.
In his message to Mani’s son and Rajya Sabha MP Jose K Mani, Singh said Mani was a dear friend of his and he had fond memories of interacting with the leader when he was the finance minister and prime minister. He further stated that he was very knowledgeable in financial matters and public affairs.