The Congress is expected to announce its choice for the next Chief Minister of Kerala by Tuesday evening, with party sources indicating that the swearing-in ceremony could take place as early as May 15. However, internal disagreements over the leadership choice continue to delay a final decision, despite consultations by the party’s central observers.

Senior Congress leaders Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik, appointed as observers for the process, have reportedly been informed that KC Venugopal enjoys the backing of 47 out of the party’s 63 MLAs. Venugopal, who is seen as the preferred candidate of the Congress high command, remains the frontrunner for the post. His main challenger is VD Satheesan, the current Congress Legislature Party leader, who is considered popular among sections of the public and party workers.

The leadership contest has become more complicated due to the support extended to Satheesan by the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key ally in the United Democratic Front (UDF). According to party sources, sections within the Congress are wary that accepting IUML’s backing for Satheesan could strengthen the BJP’s long-standing accusations of minority appeasement against the Congress. The concern has reportedly become a significant factor in the party’s internal deliberations.

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Sources close to Satheesan said the 61-year-old leader has made it clear that he is unwilling to settle for any role other than the chief ministership. Party insiders believe that if Satheesan refuses to join a cabinet headed by Venugopal, it could create governance and political challenges for the new administration. Efforts are currently underway to persuade Satheesan and arrive at a broader consensus within the state unit.

At the same time, sections within the Congress have raised concerns about Satheesan’s lack of administrative experience compared to Venugopal, who has previously served as a minister both in Kerala and at the Centre. Some leaders have also privately expressed displeasure over posters and public campaigns supporting Satheesan across the state, interpreting them as attempts to pressure the party leadership despite limited legislative backing.

The issue was reportedly discussed during a meeting convened by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with the three contenders for the top post on Saturday. Gandhi is said to have instructed party leaders to avoid factionalism and public displays of strength. Meanwhile, if KC Venugopal, currently a Lok Sabha MP, is chosen as chief minister, Kerala would have to conduct by-elections for both an Assembly constituency and a Lok Sabha seat within six months.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Meets KC Venugopal Amid Kerala CM Selection Discussions