Kerala Cabinet list to reach Governor by 2 pm today ahead of VD Satheesan swearing-in

Thiruvananthapuram: Intense last-minute political negotiations continued in Kerala as the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) moved closer to finalising its new Cabinet ahead of the swearing-in of Chief Minister-designate V D Satheesan on Monday.

According to AICC General Secretary Deepa Dasmunsi, discussions on ministerial allocations and portfolio distribution in Kerala have been completed, and the final Cabinet list will be submitted to Governor Rajendra Arlekar by 2 pm on Sunday.

High-level talks in Kerala capital

Senior Congress leaders, along with alliance partners, held multiple rounds of meetings in Thiruvananthapuram across Kerala’s political hub, the KPCC headquarters, as well as other venues. The discussions were led by Satheesan, KPCC president Sunny Joseph, and Deepa Dasmunsi.

The talks focused primarily on Cabinet formation, portfolio sharing, and representation for coalition partners in the new government of Kerala.

Chennithala likely to get key portfolio

Within the Congress discussions in Kerala, senior leader Ramesh Chennithala is reportedly being considered for the influential Home and Vigilance portfolio.

Sources said the Home Ministry issue was largely settled earlier, but Chennithala has sought additional representation for his supporters in both the Cabinet and organisational structure.

IUML seeks five ministerial berths

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key ally in the Kerala UDF alliance, is expected to secure five ministerial positions in the upcoming Cabinet.

Party leaders, including P K Kunhalikutty, have held discussions with Congress leadership in Kerala, with the final decision expected after consultations with all alliance partners.

Reports suggest Kunhalikutty is likely to take charge of the Industries and IT portfolios, while other names under consideration include K M Shaji, N Shamsudheen, Parakkal Abdulla, V E Abdul Gafoor, and P K Basheer.

Other allies seek representation

Other UDF constituents in Kerala are also pushing for Cabinet representation. The Kerala Congress faction led by P J Joseph has demanded two ministerial posts, while the RSP is expected to receive one berth.

The CMP’s lone MLA CP John is also likely to be included in the Cabinet, though final allocations are still under discussion.

Cabinet list submission today

With discussions in Kerala nearing completion, the UDF leadership is preparing to formally submit the Cabinet list to the Governor, marking a key step before the swearing-in ceremony.

Party leaders said the negotiations have been largely positive, with only final adjustments remaining before the official announcement.