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Congress MLAs ask party leadership to decide Kerala CM face, pass resolution
The Congress legislature party in Kerala authorised the party high command to pick the chief minister’s candidate, passing a one-line resolution at its Thiruvananthapuram meeting amid ongoing lobbying. AICC observers then held consultations with all MLAs, while factions claimed backing from supporters and allies for their preferred contenders.
Why It Matters
The move signals centralization of the CM selection within the national party leadership and highlights ongoing intra-party contest and alliance considerations in Kerala politics.
Timeline
5 Events
Mathew Kuzhalnadan reiterates unity and respect for high-command decision
May 7, 2026
Muvattupuzha MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan said all legislators would abide by the decision of the party high command, challenging portrayals of confusion within the party.
Contenders and backing discussed among party factions
May 7, 2026
Venugopal’s camp claimed majority support among MLAs, while Satheesan’s faction said he had the backing of major allies, including the IUML, Kerala Congress (Joseph) and Communist Marxist Party.
AICC observers hold one-on-one consultations with MLAs
May 7, 2026
Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik, observers deputed by the AICC leadership, conducted individual consultations with all 63 MLAs at Indira Bhawan to ascertain their preferences for the CM post.
Congress CLP passes resolution to empower high command to decide CM post
May 7, 2026
The 63-member Congress legislature party (CLP) formally passed a one-line resolution authorising the party high command to decide the nominee for the chief minister’s post at a meeting in Thiruvananthapuram.
UDF sweeps Kerala assembly elections, wins 102 seats
April 9, 2026
The United Democratic Front (UDF) won the Kerala assembly elections, securing a majority in the 140-member house with 102 seats, returning to power after a decade of Left rule.