16th Kerala Legislative Assembly commences; newly elected MLAs sworn in

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The newly elected 16th Kerala Legislative Assembly officially commenced its first session today with the swearing-in ceremony of its members.

The proceedings began at 9:00 AM under the administration of Pro-tem Speaker G. Sudhakaran. Following alphabetical protocol, Kalamassery MLA and Minister for Fisheries and Social Justice, V. E. Abdul Gafoor, was the first to be sworn in. Representatives from the Left Democratic Front (LDF) opted for solemn affirmations during the ceremony.

Speaker election and upcoming schedule

The house is scheduled to elect its new Speaker tomorrow morning at 9:00 AM. The election will see a multi-party contest:

• Congress (UDF): Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan
• BJP: B. B. Gopakumar (MLA from Chathannoor)

Session Timeline:

• May 23 – 28: Assembly Recess
• May 29: Governor’s Policy Address
• June 1 – 3: Discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address
• Mid-June: Presentation of the State Budget

The assembly will temporarily adjourn from May 23 to May 28, resume for the Governor’s policy address on May 29, and will proceed with the budget presentation by mid-June.