In a historic political shift, VD Satheesan took oath as the Chief Minister of Kerala on Wednesday, marking the end of a decade-long Left Front rule in the state. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government assumed power with a comprehensive victory in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections.
Oath Ceremony at Raj Bhavan
The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Raj Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, where Governor Arif Mohammad Khan administered the oath of office and secrecy to Satheesan. Several prominent UDF leaders, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former chief ministers, attended the event.
New Cabinet Ministers
Along with Satheesan, a council of ministers was also sworn in. The cabinet includes senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, who will handle key portfolios, and other coalition partners from the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), Kerala Congress (M), and Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP). The new government aims to focus on development, welfare, and transparency.
End of Left Dominance
The UDF's victory comes after the Left Democratic Front (LDF) had governed Kerala for two consecutive terms under Pinarayi Vijayan. The election results reflected a desire for change among voters, with the UDF securing a comfortable majority. Satheesan, in his first address, promised to uphold democratic values and work for the state's progress.
Key Priorities
The new chief minister outlined his administration's priorities, including reviving the economy, addressing unemployment, improving healthcare and education, and ensuring good governance. He also emphasized the importance of federalism and cooperation with the central government.
The UDF's return to power after a decade is seen as a significant boost for the Congress party, which has faced electoral setbacks in other states. Political analysts view this as a potential shift in Kerala's political landscape.
