End to suspense? Congress zeroes in on one name; Kerala’s next CM likely to be announced today
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram: The prolonged uncertainty over who will become Kerala’s next Chief Minister may finally end today. Indications are that the Congress high command will make an official announcement after completing the final round of discussions with senior leaders. The leadership has reportedly concluded deliberations on the CM post, and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are expected to hold a meeting today. Reports suggest that the high command has narrowed down the choice to a single name, and an official declaration could follow once it receives the approval of the AICC president.
There is growing criticism among voters over the delay in choosing a Chief Minister even 10 days after the election results. Several quarters have warned that the patience of the public should not be tested further. The leadership of the Indian Union Muslim League is also said to be unhappy over the delay in the announcement. In this backdrop, an emergency leadership meeting will be held today at Panakkad. League leaders believe people are questioning why the party, which achieved a historic victory by winning 22 seats, has not even been able to celebrate properly. There are also indications that the League is inclined towards the name of VD Satheesan.
The delay in selecting the Chief Minister has become a political weapon for the Bharatiya Janata Party at the national level. BJP leaders, including the Prime Minister, have alleged that despite securing a huge mandate, the Congress has failed to decide on a Chief Minister because of internal power struggles.
Following the Chief Minister’s announcement, the coalition is expected to move into discussions on cabinet formation. Names being considered for ministerial berths reportedly include K Muraleedharan, CP John, Shibu Baby John, AP Anil Kumar, Chandy Oommen and Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan. Community balance and district representation are expected to play a key role in the final selection of ministers.