Thiruvananthapuram, May 14: The suspense surrounding the next Chief Minister of Kerala has ended with the announcement of V.D. Satheesan’s name. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is now shifting its focus from political wrangling to the transfer of power. V.D. Satheesan is set to take his oath of office on Monday. Following the resolution of the Chief Minister issue, intense discussions have begun within the UDF regarding the new cabinet structure.
Sources indicate efforts are underway to ensure that all 20 ministers take the oath alongside Satheesan, eliminating the possibility of a phased cabinet expansion. Instead, a full-scale political launch is anticipated from day one.
Traditionally, leaders of coalition partners take the oath alongside the Chief Minister during the ceremony. However, to avoid any lingering uncertainty after the delay in finalizing the Chief Ministerial candidate, the Congress leadership appears eager to present a united front. The message the UDF aims to convey is clear: the turmoil has ended, the government is ready, and the coalition stands united.
Intensive discussions are ongoing between Congress leadership and key allies, including the Indian Union Muslim League and the Kerala Congress factions, regarding portfolio allocation and representation in ministerial posts.
A broad formula for power-sharing has largely been established, but discussions continue over some key departments and regional balance within the cabinet.
The Congress leadership is also aware that expectations for a smooth and stable start are exceptionally high after securing a significant mandate of 102 seats.
Insiders within the party have privately acknowledged that any delay in cabinet formation could reignite unnecessary speculation, especially when the coalition seeks to demonstrate decisiveness and administrative readiness.
I.U.M.L. leader Pannakkad Syed Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal expressed gratitude for the decision to appoint V.D. Satheesan as the new Chief Minister. He stated, “From the beginning, we made it clear that we would abide by the decisions of the AICC leadership. This government will operate as a true ‘Team UDF’ administration for the next five years.”
Thangal noted that the AICC high command is the final decision-making body and followed a democratic process of extensive consultations before reaching this decision. “Now we will discuss within the party and decide on our ministerial representatives,” he added.
For Satheesan, Monday’s ceremony will signify more than just a personal political achievement; it will symbolically mark the transfer of power following years of sustained attacks on the leftist government.
If the current plan materializes, the new Chief Minister may take office not alone but alongside the entire cabinet.
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