The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala has finally chosen V D Satheesan as the Chief Minister after 11 days of intense deliberations, consultations, and lobbying. The decision, announced on May 14, 2026, ended a period of uncertainty that began on counting day, May 4.
The Countdown Begins
On May 4, as election results indicated a clear UDF victory, the race for the top post began. Senior Congress leaders, including Satheesan and other aspirants, started lobbying for support. The party high command in Delhi remained closely involved, with observers shuttling between the national capital and Thiruvananthapuram.
Key Players and Their Moves
V D Satheesan, the Leader of Opposition in the outgoing assembly, emerged as a frontrunner early on. However, rival factions within the Congress pushed for other candidates, citing regional balance and caste equations. The Kerala Congress (M) and other UDF allies also staked claims, demanding a share in power.
Over the next week, a series of meetings were held at the state party headquarters, Indira Bhavan. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi personally intervened to broker a consensus. Satheesan's experience as a former minister and his clean image worked in his favour.
The Final Decision
By May 12, the party had narrowed down the choice to Satheesan. On May 13, a final round of consultations with UDF partners sealed the deal. Satheesan was formally elected as the legislature party leader on May 14, paving the way for his swearing-in as Chief Minister.
Political analysts note that the delay reflected the Congress's internal democracy but also exposed factional rifts. The UDF now hopes to project unity as it prepares to form the government.
