Kerala power shift: UDF races to finalise cabinet, key portfolios under negotiation

Thiruvananthapuram: The United Democratic Front (UDF) has intensified efforts to form a new government in Kerala, with bilateral talks scheduled on Saturday between the Indian National Congress and its alliance partners to finalise cabinet allocations and portfolios.

Sources said discussions are focused on the distribution of ministerial posts among constituent parties, along with allocation of key portfolios. Informal consultations have already begun within the alliance.

The front is also working on finalising the structure of the new cabinet, including the number of ministers each party will receive based on their legislative strength.

Ramesh Chennithala’s role and internal reconciliation

Former leader Ramesh Chennithala, who was earlier seen as a possible Chief Ministerial contender, had reportedly shown initial hesitation over joining the cabinet. However, a recent visit by Chief Minister-designate V D Satheesan helped ease tensions and open the door for reconciliation.

Senior party leaders, including Deepa Dasmunshi, also held discussions with Chennithala and conveyed the High Command’s interest in his inclusion in the cabinet.

Reports suggest Chennithala is now willing to join the cabinet if he is allotted the Home portfolio, a demand currently under consideration within the alliance.

The Indian Union Muslim League is expected to seek around five ministerial positions, though a compromise formula of four ministers plus one cabinet-rank post is also being discussed.

The Congress is likely to hold around 12 ministerial positions, including the Chief Minister and Speaker posts, while other coalition partners are expected to receive representation based on their strength.

Swearing-in ceremony preparations

The UDF high-power committee has finalised that the swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday at 10 am.

Arrangements are being made across the city for live viewing of the event, which is expected to be attended by Congress chief ministers and national leaders.

In early remarks ahead of assuming office, Chief Minister-designate V D Satheesan indicated that the new government would focus on cost-cutting measures, including restrictions on official convoy size and avoiding the purchase of new ministerial vehicles.

He also stated that the government would review certain administrative restrictions introduced earlier, while maintaining a “zero tolerance” stance on communalism and continuing key development projects initiated by the previous administration.