Arif Mohammed Khan, the outgoing Governor of Kerala, concluded his tumultuous tenure on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy marked by political confrontations and deep emotional connections with the state.
In his farewell address, Khan expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “My term has come to an end. But Kerala has a very special place in my heart. My association with Kerala is not going to come to an end. It is a lifelong bond now.”
Notably, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his cabinet colleagues were absent from the farewell event at Raj Bhavan. When questioned about their absence, Khan chose to remain diplomatic and refrained from commenting.
Khan’s tenure was defined by frequent clashes with the state government, especially over university appointments and legislative matters. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that he leaves Kerala with “the most beautiful memories” of his time in office.
As he departed, Khan reiterated his enduring connection with the state, marking the end of a significant chapter in Kerala’s political landscape—one shaped by both collaboration and sharp disagreements.
