Eight days after the Congress-led UDF secured a significant win in the 140-member Kerala Assembly, the alliance faces uncertainty as it awaits the announcement of the new chief minister. The delay in appointing a leader has turned the expected smooth transition into a political suspense saga, with intense lobbying and consultations ongoing.
While celebrations mark the UDF’s triumph in Kerala, behind the scenes, power corridors in Delhi witness strategic discussions and closed-door meetings. The suspense deepens as the party leadership summons former Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee president Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan for crucial consultations on Tuesday.
AICC general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal seems to have the support of a majority among the Congress’ legislators, followed by Ramesh Chennithala and V.D. Satheesan. However, Venugopal’s rise as a contender has sparked discontent among some Congress members in Kerala who believe Satheesan deserves the chief minister’s post.
The debate over the leadership extends beyond party boundaries, with questions raised about appointing a sitting MP as Kerala’s chief minister. Despite concerns, the high command seems undeterred, citing examples like Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and former Union ministers moving to state politics.
As Kerala awaits the decision from the Congress high command, discussions continue both within the party and in public forums. Leaders express anticipation for a prompt announcement regarding the next Chief Minister, signaling the imminent conclusion of the selection process.
