The Indian National Congress on Thursday officially announced V. D. Satheesan as the next Chief Minister of Kerala, bringing an end to days of intense political discussions and speculation following the State Assembly election results.
The announcement was made at the AICC headquarters by senior Congress leaders Ajay Maken, Mukul Wasnik and Deepa Dasmunshi.
The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) secured a massive victory in the Kerala Assembly elections, winning 102 out of 140 seats and ending the decade-long rule of the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF).
Satheesan Calls For Unity And Collective Governance
Following the announcement, Chief Minister-designate V.D. Satheesan said he would work closely with senior Congress leaders including K. C. Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala, both of whom were also considered strong contenders for the top post.
Satheesan stressed the importance of collective leadership and said the new government would focus on delivering promises made to the people during the election campaign.
“The people of Kerala have given us a huge responsibility after ending ten years of Left rule. We will work together to improve the living standards of the people and build a new Kerala,” he said.
BJP Targets Congress Over IUML Influence
Soon after the announcement, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticised the Congress, alleging that the government would function under the influence of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).
The BJP also shared multiple social media posts targeting the Congress-IUML alliance following Satheesan’s selection.
Senior Leaders Extend Support
Veteran Congress leader A. K. Antony extended his support to Satheesan and expressed confidence in his leadership. Antony said he hoped Kerala would emerge as one of the most developed states in South India under the new administration.
Senior Congress leader K. Sudhakaran also backed the AICC’s decision, saying all party members should accept the high command’s verdict and work together for the people of Kerala.
Meanwhile, UDF convener Adoor Prakash said the alliance’s landslide victory reflected the collective efforts of the UDF leadership and workers across the State.
From Opposition Leader To Chief Minister
V.D. Satheesan’s rise marks a major political milestone after more than two decades in Kerala politics. Having entered the Kerala Legislative Assembly from Paravur nearly 25 years ago, Satheesan now prepares to move into Cliff House, the official residence of the Chief Minister of Kerala.
Political observers view his appointment as a significant transition from a strong Opposition leader to the head of the State government at a crucial phase in Kerala’s political landscape.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
