We Won’t Be Intolerant, UDF Works As Single Party: VD Satheesan
VD Satheesan asserts UDF functions as unified political alliance.
The Congress high command has named VD Satheesan as its choice for the next Chief Minister of Kerala after a 10-day internal deliberation process that concluded on Thursday afternoon, bringing clarity to a closely watched leadership contest within the party. Satheesan emerged ahead of senior leaders KC Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala, who were also considered strong contenders for the top post.
The 61-year-old leader has never held a ministerial position in his political career, making his selection a notable elevation within the party’s Kerala unit. Despite this, he is widely regarded as enjoying strong support from Congress workers, grassroots cadres, and sections of the public, which is believed to have strengthened his position during internal consultations.
Following the announcement, Satheesan described the decision-making process as an example of internal democracy within the party. He said the leadership had engaged in detailed discussions with elected representatives, including MLAs, MPs, and senior leaders, before arriving at a consensus. He emphasised that such deliberations reflected the party’s democratic structure and collective approach to leadership selection.
Also Read: Congress Likely To Decide Kerala CM Soon Amid IUML Support For VD Satheesan
Satheesan also outlined his approach to governance and leadership, stressing cooperation and inclusivity across political and organisational lines. He said he would work with all stakeholders and had no personal grievances against colleagues or critics. He acknowledged the right to criticism in a democracy and added that both ruling leaders and opposition figures must be open to scrutiny and accountability.
Reiterating his stance on leadership style, Satheesan said he would remain open to feedback and would correct course wherever necessary. He emphasised unity within the party and repeatedly stated that he would “not be intolerant,” underscoring his intent to maintain open communication with colleagues. He also credited the United Democratic Front for its strong electoral performance, noting that the alliance secured more than two-thirds of the assembly seats, with 102 seats in total.
KC Venugopal, a senior Congress leader from Alappuzha and widely seen as a key figure in the party’s central leadership structure, expressed full support for the decision. He stated that he respected the high command’s choice, congratulated Satheesan on his selection, and assured that he would extend cooperation to both the new leadership and the United Democratic Front government in Kerala.
The leadership announcement comes amid comparisons to earlier internal disputes within the Congress in other states, particularly Karnataka, where the selection of the Chief Minister had led to prolonged discussions and factional tensions between senior leaders. In contrast, party leaders have projected the Kerala decision as a unified outcome following internal consultations, aimed at presenting a cohesive front ahead of the next phase of governance.
Also Read: VD Satheesan Refuses Secondary Role, Escalates Kerala CM Race Within Congress
