Senior Congress leader V. D. Satheesan is likely to be announced as the next Chief Minister of Kerala, bringing an end to nearly 10 days of suspense, intense lobbying, and internal discussions within the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).
According to multiple reports, the Congress high command has moved closer to finalising Satheesan’s name after marathon consultations involving Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and senior Kerala leaders in Delhi.
The Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting is scheduled to be held at the KPCC headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, where newly elected MLAs are expected to formally choose their legislative leader. The decision will effectively confirm Kerala’s next Chief Minister following the UDF’s massive victory in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Satheesan, a six-time MLA and former Leader of Opposition, emerged as one of the strongest contenders for the post alongside K. C. Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala. However, reports suggest that public sentiment, grassroots support, and backing from key UDF allies strengthened Satheesan’s position during the final round of deliberations.
The delay in announcing the Chief Minister had triggered massive political trolling and meme trends across Kerala social media. Opposition parties and even Congress workers openly questioned why the party needed more than a week after election results to finalise its leader.
Supporters of Satheesan gathered outside his residence in Kochi on Thursday morning as reports about his likely selection intensified. Videos and visuals of celebrations quickly started circulating online even before the official announcement.
Political observers say Satheesan’s elevation would represent a major generational shift in Kerala Congress politics. Over the past few years, he has built a strong public image through aggressive campaigns against the LDF government on issues including corruption, governance, and financial management.
Meanwhile, the Congress leadership is expected to officially announce the decision during a press conference after the CLP meeting.
