Congress leaders convene at the residence of party president Mallikarjun Kharge to finalize the next Chief Minister of Kerala following the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) decisive victory in the state assembly elections.
Key Meeting on Leadership Decision
Sunny Joseph, head of the party’s Kerala unit, confirms his attendance at the crucial discussion. “The party leadership will take a decision on the Chief Minister,” he states. “I am heading to Kharge ji’s residence for discussions, after which the high command will announce the choice,” Joseph tells reporters.
The Congress legislature party in Kerala has empowered the central leadership to select the Chief Minister candidate.
Coalition Partners Eye Cabinet Roles
Apu John Joseph, leader of Kerala Congress (Joseph) and MLA-elect from Thodupuzha, asserts that his party deserves two ministerial positions in the new UDF government. “Ministerial portfolios will follow the Chief Minister decision, with leadership making the right calls at the right time,” he adds.
Congress Confident Amid Speculation
Senior leader PJ Kurien emphasizes the party’s resilience. “Congress possesses the strength to manage any political challenges, including multiple by-elections,” he declares in Pathanamthitta. “Elected representatives’ views mirror public sentiment,” Kurien notes in response to queries on the leadership race.
Prominent contenders for the Chief Minister post include VD Satheesan, KC Venugopal, and Ramesh Chennithala.
Opposition Voices Criticism
CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan condemns the apparent internal discord within Congress over the top position.
