‘CMs like Vijay are being invited’: Kerala CM-designate Satheesan on oath ceremony

Thiruvananthapuram: Following the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) decisive sweep in the 2026 Assembly elections, Chief Minister-designate V D Satheesan visited the home of Chandy Oommen on Thursday to honour the memory of the late Congress stalwart and former CM, Oommen Chandy.

The visit comes on the heels of the Congress high command officially naming Satheesan as the state’s next leader, resolving days of internal deliberation over the top post. While paying his respects, Satheesan reflected on his deep bond with the late leader, noting that Oommen Chandy had championed his growth by offering him numerous platforms to present adjournment motions in the Assembly.

In a moment of personal reflection, Satheesan shared that while he has achieved the state’s highest office, his "greatest regret" was never having the chance to serve as a minister under Oommen Chandy’s direct leadership.

Regarding the upcoming transition of power, Satheesan confirmed that the party's national leadership is extending invitations to various state leaders. "Other Chief Ministers, including Vijay, are being invited by the national leadership," he informed reporters.

Cabinet and ceremony plans

The CM-designate indicated that the final structure of the government—including the potential induction of Chandy Oommen—remains a matter of consensus. "Whether Chandy Oommen will be part of the Cabinet will be decided collectively... A decision on taking the oath together will be made tomorrow," Satheesan stated.

Reflecting on his career, he added, "The golden phase of my political life was from 2006 to 2011... I prayed before Oommen Chandy's photograph." He also expressed his intention to maintain political courtesy by reaching out to outgoing CM Pinarayi Vijayan and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala.

Support from party veterans

Satheesan also sought the counsel of senior leader V M Sudheeran, who acted as a mentor during Satheesan’s time as Vice President of the party. Sudheeran hailed the high command's choice as the "most appropriate decision”, praising Satheesan’s effective leadership of the UDF campaign.

A veteran of the Paravur constituency for a quarter-century, Satheesan won his seat by a margin of over 20,000 votes. Since 2021, he has served as the Leader of the Opposition, establishing himself as a formidable critic of the previous administration and the primary face of the UDF’s 2026 electoral surge.

ANI