Eight days after the Congress-led UDF secures a landslide victory in Kerala, capturing 102 of 140 Assembly seats, the party faces mounting pressure over the delay in announcing the next chief minister. Frustration boils over as posters targeting Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra surface outside the District Congress Committee office in Wayanad.
Posters Deliver Stark Warnings
On Wednesday morning, the posters issue direct rebukes to the Congress leadership. One declares: “Mr Rahul and Priyanka, forget Wayanad. You won’t win again from here.” Another aims at senior leader K. C. Venugopal, a top contender: “Mr Rahul, KC might be your bag bearer, but people of Keralam never forgive you.” A third states: “RG and PG, this is not a warning. Kerala will never forgive you for this blunder.” Yet another proclaims: “Wayanad will be next Amethi.”
Reasons Behind the CM Announcement Delay
The high command conducts multiple discussions in Delhi among frontrunners: K. C. Venugopal, V. D. Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala. Senior Kerala leaders travel to Delhi for consultations with Rahul Gandhi. Party observers gather feedback from MLAs, yet no decision emerges, sparking speculation of internal disagreements.
Why Wayanad Posters Resonate Nationally
Wayanad holds special significance as Rahul Gandhi’s former Lok Sabha constituency before he shifts to Rae Bareli. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra actively campaigns there, linking her to the region. These posters signal discontent among local workers and supporters, questioning whether decisions prioritize grassroots input or central influence.
Key Contenders in the Race
- V. D. Satheesan: Current Leader of Opposition, known for spearheading the aggressive campaign against the Left government.
- K. C. Venugopal: Rahul Gandhi’s close aide and AICC general secretary with strong national influence.
- Ramesh Chennithala: Veteran leader with deep organizational roots in Kerala Congress.
Leadership Response and Growing Tensions
Rahul Gandhi meets former Kerala Congress chiefs in Delhi to gauge the state’s political mood. Former KPCC president K. Muraleedharan indicates an announcement comes soon. Public posters and factional whispers point to underlying tensions, despite official claims of routine post-victory deliberations.
The BJP capitalizes on the delay, with spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla quipping that Congress might install “five chief ministers in five years.” Kerala waits as prolonged silence fuels daily headlines.
