UDF eyes power: High Command to start CM selection process tomorrow

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Brimming with confidence that their calculations will hold and power can be seized, the Congress party is approaching the vote-counting day with a plan to immediately initiate discussions for selecting a Chief Minister. Despite the ongoing "Chief Minister controversy," the leadership evaluates that a decision can be reached without complications if they secure a majority.

Central observers appointed by the AICC are expected to arrive in Kerala tomorrow. They will consult Congress MLAs regarding their preference for the leadership and submit a report to the High Command. Following this, the High Command plans to announce the Chief Minister after communicating with UDF allies.

Sources indicate that AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal is currently out of the race. Both he and the national leadership believe that internal disputes should not overshadow a potential victory. As of now, the primary contenders are senior leader Ramesh Chennithala and Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan.

Satheesan currently holds an edge due to his leadership of "Team UDF," which unified the front. However, there is a strong opinion that Chennithala deserves an opportunity as a veteran leader. If so, the possibility of a "term-sharing" agreement between the two cannot be ruled out. Confident of victory, a celebratory pavilion has already been erected at the KPCC headquarters, Indira Bhavan.

LDF: Pinarayi again, if successful

The LDF remains steadfast in its belief of securing a historic third consecutive term. If they win a majority, there is no name other than Pinarayi Vijayan for the Chief Minister’s post. The LDF also anticipates no complexities regarding the selection of other ministers, expecting to win at least 75 seats.

BJP in High Hopes

Beyond just reopening their account, the BJP-led NDA expects to win more seats and significantly increase its vote share. The party calculates that this election will establish them as a decisive force in Kerala politics.