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Congress top brass to meet former Kerala chiefs as suspense over CM persists
The Congress high command summoned former KPCC presidents to New Delhi for discussions on Kerala's next chief minister amid ongoing delay in naming a CM candidate after the April 9 assembly polls. A Delhi meeting on May 9 preceded further lobbying by CM-contender camps, as AICC observers gathered and party leaders prepared for a decision.
Why It Matters
The delay in selecting Kerala's chief minister after a strong electoral performance highlights internal leadership dynamics and could influence governance in the state; it also triggers reactions from alliance partners like IUML.
Timeline
6 Events
Muraleedharan says CM decision likely within 48 hours
May 13, 2026
Muraleedharan stated that the CM decision is expected within the next 48 hours and that he would adhere to the high command’s final decision; he noted that prior opinions relayed to AICC observers would be considered.
AICC calls former KPCC presidents to Delhi for CM discussions
May 13, 2026
The AICC called former KPCC presidents and senior party leaders to New Delhi for discussions on the Kerala government formation. Former KPCC chiefs K Muraleedharan and VM Sudheeran confirmed they would travel to the national capital at the high command's direction.
IUML displeasure over delay in CM selection
May 12, 2026
IUML’s Malappuram district general secretary P Abdul Hameed said the delay had caused dissatisfaction among party workers and the public, warning that prolonged delay could have repercussions and urging the AICC leadership to recognise this.
CM-contender camps intensify lobbying
May 11, 2026
Since the May 4 poll results, camps of VD Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala, and KC Venugopal intensified lobbying for the chief minister’s post as final decision remained pending.
Congress top leadership holds a Delhi meeting on Kerala government formation
May 9, 2026
A meeting convened by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi to discuss Kerala government formation was attended by Rahul Gandhi, AICC Kerala in-charge Deepa Dasmunsi, current KPCC president Sunny Joseph, general secretary (organisation) Venugopal, and senior leaders from the state Chennithala and Satheesan.
Poll results announced in Kerala; UDF wins 102 of 140 seats; CM candidate undecided
May 4, 2026
Kerala assembly election results were announced with the United Democratic Front (UDF) winning 102 of 140 seats; the Congress-led alliance had not yet named a chief ministerial candidate.