THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With Rahul Mamkootathil stepping down, four leaders are being considered for the vacant post of Youth Congress state president. State vice-president Abin Varkey, national secretary Binu Chulliyil, former KSU state president K.M. Abhijith, and state vice-president O.J. Janeesh are among the front-runners.

The current president’s term will end within a year, so the new appointment will likely be on a temporary basis. Still, the national leadership is expected to take the decision after weighing all factors.

Abin Varkey had finished second against Rahul during the Youth Congress presidential election held two years ago. At that time, Rahul had faced allegations of rigging the vote using fake ID cards. Because of this, Abin may get preference, but since the KPCC, Mahila Congress, and KSU president posts are already held by leaders from the minority community, his chances may be slim.

Another strong contender is Binu Chulliyil. Though he was seen as a frontrunner during the presidential polls, senior leaders convinced him to step aside, after which he was appointed national secretary. State vice-president Janeesh is also being considered, with his close association with K.C. Venugopal seen as an advantage.

K.M. Abhijith, who earlier had a close association with leaders including Shafi Parambil, is also seen as a contender.