Even before the Congress high command decides on Kerala’s next Chief Minister, a debate has sparked regarding the eligibility of a sitting MP to contest for the position. K. C. Venugopal, the influential AICC general secretary, has emerged as a strong contender for the role following the Congress-led UDF’s victory. Prior to the Assembly polls, the Congress had emphasized that sitting MPs should not participate in state elections to focus on national affairs.
This stance had disappointed several senior leaders who aspired to re-enter state politics, including UDF convenor Adoor Prakash and former KPCC president K. Sudhakaran. Despite the directive, Sudhakaran resisted strongly, only relenting after intervention from veteran A. K. Antony. With Venugopal’s candidacy gaining traction, concerns about political consistency have been raised.
Supporters of outgoing Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan highlight his role in leading the Congress’s resurgence, advocating for his consideration. Former Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala also asserts that seniority should not be disregarded. Amidst these discussions, the Congress legislature party has empowered party chief Mallikarjuna Kharge to make the final decision on the Chief Ministerial candidate.
