The battle for Kerala’s next Chief Minister has now moved to New Delhi after the Congress Legislature Party authorized party President Mallikarjuna Kharge to decide on the leadership issue. In a meeting in Thiruvananthapuram, state Congress chief Sunny Joseph proposed a resolution, seconded by V.D. Satheesan, which was unanimously passed. A three-way contest is emerging among Satheesan, AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala despite outward unity.
Behind the scenes, party observers Ajay Maken, Mukul Wasnik, and Deepa Das Munshi met newly elected MLAs to gauge support and political leanings. While Satheesan is a public favorite for his opposition leadership, Venugopal seems to have the numbers within the legislature party on his side. Torchlight marches in various cities have demanded Satheesan as Chief Minister, citing his success in converting anti-incumbency sentiment into votes.
Venugopal’s organizational strength and proximity to central leadership have garnered support from several MLAs and state leaders. Veteran Congress leader A.K. Antony’s backing of Chennithala, based on seniority and experience, adds complexity to the situation. Chennithala’s case is further bolstered by support from senior leader V. M. Sudheeran. The high command now faces the challenge of balancing public sentiment, legislative backing, and seniority in selecting Kerala’s next Chief Minister after the party’s return to power.
