Congress Considers KC Venugopal As Kerala Chief Minister After UDF Wins Majority

Senior Congress leader K.C. Venugopal has emerged as the leading contender to become the next Chief Minister of Kerala following the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) strong performance in the state assembly elections. Party sources said the internal assessment report submitted to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge places Venugopal “way ahead” of other aspirants. The report was prepared after consultations with newly elected MLAs, alliance partners, and feedback from public opinion in key constituencies. A formal announcement is expected soon as the party moves to consolidate its post-election position.

According to Congress insiders, observers Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik have completed their evaluation and submitted a detailed report to the central leadership. The report is understood to recommend an early decision on the Chief Ministerial candidate to avoid internal uncertainty. It also reflects views gathered from legislators across Kerala, along with inputs from alliance partners within the UDF. The leadership is now reviewing the findings carefully before making a final choice that balances organisational strength and electoral mandate.

The UDF delivered a decisive victory in the 140-member Kerala Assembly, winning 63 seats independently and securing a total of 102 seats with its allies. The Indian Union Muslim League contributed 22 seats, while the Kerala Congress added seven, strengthening the coalition’s overall majority. In contrast, the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by outgoing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, was reduced to just 35 seats. The results mark a significant political shift in the state, ending the LDF’s dominance.

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Within the Congress, Venugopal’s rise has been strongly supported by sections of the party who credit him with strategic coordination during the campaign. Supporters have publicly described him as the “real architect” of the UDF’s victory, with posters calling him the “nayakan” or hero appearing outside party and youth wing offices. Venugopal currently serves as Congress General Secretary and is also the Lok Sabha MP from Alappuzha. If appointed Chief Minister, he will have to resign his parliamentary seat, triggering a by-election.

The shortlist for the Chief Minister’s post also includes VD Satheesan, the outgoing Leader of the Opposition, and veteran leader Ramesh Chennithala, both of whom have strong organisational bases within the state unit. Party sources said discussions are ongoing to ensure the final decision reflects both leadership capability and coalition balance. Meanwhile, preparations for the swearing-in ceremony are underway, with the event expected early next week and likely to be attended by senior national leaders including Rahul Gandhi.

Outgoing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is also expected to be invited as part of the customary democratic transition. Congress leaders are keen to project unity and stability following the election win, especially as the UDF prepares to take charge of governance after a five-year gap. The leadership hopes a swift announcement on the Chief Minister will help maintain momentum and avoid internal friction within the coalition at a crucial political juncture.

Also Read: UDF Secures Strong Mandate in Kerala as Leaders Welcome Verdict