CM race: Intense lobbying for three leaders; High Command under pressure

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As behind-the-scenes discussions intensify around three leaders for the Chief Minister’s post, AICC observers will arrive in Kerala today. Efforts are actively being made in support of K C Venugopal, V D Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala.

K C Venugopal is seen as having an edge, with the support of a significant number of MLAs. Several UDF allies, including the Muslim League, have taken a favourable stand towards Satheesan. Ramesh Chennithala, who is more senior than both leaders, has reminded party members that despite having the support of a majority of MLAs in 2021, he was not made Leader of the Opposition.

AICC observers will gather the opinions of Congress MLAs and submit a report to the central leadership. Based on this and feedback from senior Kerala leaders, the high command will take a final decision. The aim is to announce the decision within two days and conduct the swearing-in before May 10.

Former KPCC president K Sudhakaran met K Muraleedharan yesterday, reportedly to seek support for Venugopal. Venugopal, who is close to Rahul Gandhi, is in charge of party organisation. Whether Rahul Gandhi will oppose his candidature is seen as crucial.

At the same time, Deepa Dasmunsi, AICC General Secretary in charge of Kerala, is said to be impressed with Satheesan’s organisational skills, especially his role in leading the UDF to a major victory. Chennithala’s strength comes from an assurance reportedly given by Sonia Gandhi in 2021 when he was denied the Opposition Leader post. He is leaving for Delhi today.

Meanwhile, Satheesan received a grand welcome in Kochi yesterday, with supporters raising slogans calling him “Chief Minister”.

Possibilities and challenges
1. If Venugopal is chosen as Chief Minister, two by-elections will be required, as he is currently an MP. If the party loses those seats, it could affect the current momentum. It may also draw criticism since the party had earlier decided that MPs should not contest Assembly elections.

2. If Venugopal steps back, a consensus candidate acceptable to him may be considered. In that case, Ramesh Chennithala could have an advantage. Satheesan may be offered a key portfolio. However, it is uncertain whether Satheesan will agree, as he has indicated that MLA support alone should not be the deciding factor.

3. If Satheesan is chosen as Chief Minister, it remains to be seen whether Chennithala will agree to serve under him as a minister. Ignoring a senior leader could create dissatisfaction among the public. Chennithala also enjoys strong support among MLAs and has stated that seniority should be given priority.

Discussions in Delhi
The AICC has also begun preliminary discussions in Delhi regarding government formation in Kerala. A meeting was held yesterday at the residence of party president Mallikarjun Kharge, attended by Rahul Gandhi, K C Venugopal, and Jairam Ramesh.