With the selection of V.D. Satheesan as Kerala’s next Chief Minister, the focus now shifts to the power transition within the Congress-led UDF. Scheduled to be sworn in on Monday, Satheesan’s oath ceremony is expected to showcase coalition unity and political consolidation. Discussions are underway within the UDF to finalize the composition of the new ministry, aiming for all 20 ministers to be sworn in together with Satheesan in a full-scale political launch.
Traditionally in Kerala, leaders of coalition allies are sworn in alongside the Chief Minister during the inaugural ceremony. The Congress leadership is keen to project a united front and avoid any lingering uncertainty following the delay in finalizing the chief ministerial candidate. Intense consultations are ongoing between the Congress leadership and key allies to determine portfolio allocation and ministerial representation, ensuring a smooth and stable start for the government.
Efforts are being made to ensure a seamless transition of power after the UDF secured a significant mandate of 102 seats. The government aims to convey a message of readiness and decisiveness, emphasizing the unity of the coalition. IUML supremo Panakkad Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal expressed gratitude for Satheesan’s selection and affirmed the commitment to a ‘Team UDF’ administration for the next five years. The upcoming Cabinet formation is crucial for the coalition to demonstrate governance preparedness and efficiency.
