- By Aditya Jha
- Fri, 15 May 2026 02:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Congress announced VD Satheesan as the next chief minister of Kerala nine days after registering a comfortable victory in the assembly polls. However, the decision was taken after several hours of discussion, as the key post was claimed by Satheesan, KC Venugopal, and Ramesh Chennithala, all senior leaders. While Venugopal had the backing of MLAs and top brass, Satheesan was supported by the local cadre and allies. As per the reports, former party president Sonia Gandhi had to step in to resolve the issue.
Sonia Gandhi consulted former Kerala chief minister and party veteran AK Antony before conveying her final verdict to Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, reported NDTV, citing sources. Antony, known for his organisational skills, worked as a troubleshooter for Gandhi at his peak. As per the reports, in a telephonic conversation, Sonia sought Antony's opinion on the situation.
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What Did AK Antony Suggest?
The report suggests that Antony backed Satheesan to avoid two by-elections in the state. One of the MLAs had to vacate his constituency for Venugopal if the top brass backed him. Apart from this, a bypoll would have been conducted in Alappuzha too, a Lok Sabha seat currently held by Venugopal. The back-to-back elections could send a wrong message among the cadre across the state, suggested Antony.
Apart from this, the senior leader also argued that the election was fought under the leadership of Satheesan, adding that appointing a CM from Delhi could demoralise the cadre. Apart from this, Satheesan's proximity with the allies, especially IUML, also played a key role in the discussion.
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While Sonia Gandhi has largely distanced herself from active politics, she occasionally intervenes, especially in these situations. The top brass has suggested Satheesan provide space to the people from all the factions to run the government smoothly.