With indications that Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Sunny Joseph would step down from the post to join the cabinet to be soon formed by the Congress-led UDF government, the party has begun discussions to find a new state president.
Reportedly, the Congress leadership is considering at least four senior leaders for the crucial organisational post.
The party is expected to announce the new KPCC president, along with the list of ministers for the upcoming UDF government.
Who are the likely candidates?
The names currently under active consideration include MPs Benny Behanan, Kodikunnil Suresh, Anto Antony, Adoor Prakash and Shafi Parambil.
Suresh is an eight-time MP and the current chief whip of the Congress parliamentary party in the Lok Sabha. He is also a former working president of KPCC. Reports said that Suresh met AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi amid speculation over the leadership change. However, he later clarified that it was only a routine meeting.
Another emerging strong contender is Benny Behanan. A member of the KPCC Political Affairs Committee and former UDF convenor, Behanan is known for maintaining cordial relations across various factions within the party.
Anto Antony, who was considered for the post in 2025, is also in the race. However, his prospects may be affected due to the allegations linked to the person accused in the Sabarimala gold theft case.
Adoor Prakash, who was appointed the UDF convenor after Sunny Joseph became KPCC chief, is also considered; however, he is unlikely to join the race owing to health concerns.
Shafi Parambil, the MP from Vadakara and a current KPCC working president, is also reportedly in the race for the party's state chief post. The gains he secured in traditional Left strongholds—including Perambra, Koyilandy, and Kuttiadi—are seen as key factors in his favour.
Sunny Joseph, MLA from Peravoor, was appointed KPCC president in May, replacing senior leader K. Sudhakaran.
