Suspense ends; VD Satheesan named Kerala Chief Minister

New Delhi: VD Satheesan has been chosen as Kerala's new Chief Minister. Bringing an end to days of uncertainty, dramatic discussions, and intense power struggles, the Congress high command announced Satheesan as the Chief Minister.

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Thursday announced V D Satheesan as the new Chief Minister of Kerala, ending days of suspense and speculation. The announcement was made by AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala, Deepa Dasmunshi, at a press conference in New Delhi after prolonged deliberations by the party leadership.

Although a majority of MLAs were believed to be backing KC Venugopal, public sentiment in the state, the views of coalition partners, and the firm stand taken by three former KPCC presidents played a decisive role in the high command's decision to back Satheesan.

Despite Venugopal enjoying stronger support among legislators, the public mood and Satheesan's image as the leader who delivered a resounding victory ultimately persuaded the high command to choose him for the top post.

The UDF, which returned to power with 102 seats after ending the 10-year rule of the CPM-led government under Pinarayi Vijayan, had spent the past 10 days locked in deliberations over the Chief Minister's position. Kerala politics witnessed a high-voltage thriller after the election results, with intense competition for the top post.

With KC Venugopal, Ramesh Chennithala and VD Satheesan all staking claim to the Chief Minister's post, the contest within the party spilled onto the streets. Supporters put up flex boards and posters backing their respective leaders, while demonstrations and protests were also witnessed. The political battle echoed strongly across social media as well.

The announcement has now brought an end to 10 days of political uncertainty. Soon after the election results, the Congress Legislature Party meeting passed a resolution authorising the party high command to decide the Chief Minister and dispersed without naming a leader. Later, AICC observers Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik held discussions with the MLAs. The opinions of coalition partners were also sought.

Following the submission of the observers' report, the Congress high command summoned senior leaders from Kerala to Delhi for consultations. The final decision on the Chief Minister was taken after discussions with Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi.

Earlier in the morning, Rahul Gandhi held a one-hour discussion with KC Venugopal, but the decision continued to remain delayed. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra later held another round of talks with Venugopal. Meanwhile, Deepa Dasmunshi and the observers also met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.