The question of Kerala’s next chief minister remains open, with the Congress leadership yet to decide between three leading contenders.
While a majority of the MLAs back K.C. Venugopal and V.D. Satheesan, who lead in popularity, Ramesh Chennithala continues to hold the advantage in terms of seniority.
After the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting held in Thiruvanathapuram on Thursday, the AICC observers have submitted their report to national president Mallikarjun Kharge. The final decision now rests with Kharge to pick the next CM.
Though the numbers favour Venugopal, the high command faces a dilemma: given the political climate in Kerala and his own position within the central leadership, Venugopal's appointment could appear like a unilateral decision.
Reportedly, Rahul Gandhi will not be taking part in the decision to choose the CM. Congress leaders, including Satheesan and KPCC president Sunny Joseph, are in Delhi to hold talks with the high command.
According to some media reports, Satheesan has indicated that should he not be the chief minister, he won't be part of the cabinet and will serve simply as an MLA.
There are also talks of a "rotational CM" formula in Kerala. Though unlikely, similar speculations arose in Karnataka when Siddaramaiah became the chief minister. Loyalists of D.K. Shivakumar, who is the deputy CM, pushed for him to take over, citing the rumoured 2.5-year power-sharing pact in 2023.
There is also speculation that Kerala will have a Deputy CM post to satisfy the various contenders. However, Satheesan indicated during a previous press conference that there would not be a Deputy CM position.
Depending on the political situation in Kerala, the final decision rests with the high command. The Congress is likely to announce the chief minister on May 10.
