- By Priyanka Koul
- Mon, 11 May 2026 07:35 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
- VD Satheesan refuses any role except Chief Minister.
- Rahul Gandhi reportedly backs KC Venugopal for top post.
- IUML supports Satheesan; most MLAs favor Venugopal.
Kerala CM Deadlock Deepens: A week after the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) registered a sweeping victory in the Kerala Assembly elections, the party remains locked in a bitter internal battle over the chief minister’s post, with intense lobbying, factional pressure and public protests complicating the final decision.
Despite the UDF securing 102 seats, the Congress high command has so far failed to break the deadlock between senior leaders VD Satheesan, KC Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala, all of whom are seen as contenders for the top job.
According to an NDTV report citing sources, VD Satheesan has taken a firm stand and conveyed to the party leadership that he is not willing to accept any role other than that of chief minister. However, the Congress central leadership is reportedly leaning towards KC Venugopal, who is said to enjoy the backing of Rahul Gandhi and a majority of the newly elected MLAs.
As part of a possible power-sharing formula, the leadership is considering offering Satheesan a key cabinet position, while senior leader Ramesh Chennithala could be made Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
But Satheesan, who reportedly has strong public support and the backing of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), is unwilling to move aside. The IUML, a crucial UDF ally, has openly backed Satheesan’s candidature, adding another layer of complexity to the leadership tussle within the party.
The report further said that the Congress high command is unhappy with the pressure tactics allegedly being used by both Satheesan and Chennithala camps.
In Thiruvananthapuram, posters and cutouts supporting KC Venugopal have appeared outside party offices, while Satheesan’s supporters have staged demonstrations and public shows of strength to influence the leadership’s decision.
Meanwhile, KC Venugopal has emerged as the top choice of the legislators, as 43 out of 63 MLAs have extended their support to him, reported News18, citing party sources. While Venugopal has been preferred by the MLAs, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key alliance partner, has extended its support to Satheesan.