Congress High Command to Decide Kerala CM as Three-Way Battle Intensifies

Thiruvananthapuram: The selection of Kerala’s next Chief Minister has moved to New Delhi after the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) unanimously authorized party President Mallikarjuna Kharge to make the final decision. On Thursday, State Congress Chief Sunny Joseph moved the customary one-line resolution in Thiruvananthapuram, which V.D. Satheesan seconded before it passed through the newly elected assembly members.

A Three-Cornered Contest

Despite the formal resolution, an intense internal competition has emerged between three key leaders:

• V.D. Satheesan: The public favorite who led the Opposition for the last five years. Supporters across Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam have organized torchlight marches demanding his elevation, citing his success in converting anti-incumbency into a massive electoral victory.

• K.C. Venugopal: The AICC General Secretary holds significant organizational clout. While Satheesan leads in public visibility, current reports suggest Venugopal commands stronger numbers within the legislature party and maintains close ties with the central leadership.

• Ramesh Chennithala: A veteran leader whose candidacy has gained momentum through the backing of senior figures. Former Chief Minister A.K. Antony and senior leader V.M. Sudheeran have reportedly favored Chennithala, highlighting his seniority and past administrative experience.

The Road to Delhi

AICC observers Ajay Maken, Mukul Wasnik, and Deepa Das Munshi spent Thursday meeting individually with the newly elected MLAs to gauge their preferences. The team will now submit a detailed report to the high command in New Delhi.

With the Congress returning to power after a ten-year hiatus, the party leadership faces a delicate balancing act. They must weigh Satheesan’s public popularity and “man of the hour” status against Venugopal’s internal legislative support and Chennithala’s seasoned seniority.