With just two days left for the declaration of Assembly election results, intense manoeuvring for the Chief Minister’s post has begun within the Indian National Congress in Kerala. A “silent war” is said to be underway among AICC General Secretary K. C. Venugopal, Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan, and former Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala.
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key ally in the UDF coalition, has openly backed Satheesan for the top post. This has triggered resentment within sections of the Congress, with some leaders viewing it as undue interference in the party’s internal affairs. The IUML’s support has further sharpened the power struggle among factions backing Satheesan, Chennithala, and Venugopal.
Following the IUML’s public stance, both the Chennithala and Venugopal camps are attempting to secure the support of other constituents within the United Democratic Front (UDF) to strengthen their positions in the expected post-election scenario.
At the same time, both the Satheesan and Chennithala factions remain wary of the moves of the Venugopal camp. While the Chennithala group hopes to gain Venugopal’s support if he exits the race, his supporters maintain that he continues to be a contender for the Chief Minister’s post.
Adding to the intrigue, Venugopal’s reappointment as Chairman of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has sparked speculation in political circles. The move is being seen by some as positioning him as a potential compromise candidate amid the ongoing tussle.
While some believe this development may sideline him from the Chief Ministerial race, sources close to Venugopal suggest that he could resign from the PAC chairmanship if chosen for the top post and return to Kerala.
There are also indications that Venugopal has chosen to remain in Delhi following the IUML’s open endorsement of Satheesan, further fuelling speculation over shifting political alignments within the Congress ahead of the results.