Thiruvananthapuram: Celebrations broke out across Kerala on Thursday after the Congress high command named VD Satheesan as the state’s next Chief Minister.

Satheesan was at the Cantonment House in Thiruvananthapuram — the official residence of the Leader of the Opposition — when the announcement was made by AICC leaders in New Delhi.

Moments after the declaration, supporters of Satheesan burst crackers and distributed sweets in various parts of the state. His hometown constituency of Paravur in Ernakulam district, which he has represented since 2001, witnessed massive celebrations.

Widely regarded as the frontrunner in the race, Satheesan also enjoyed the backing of key UDF allies during the selection process. As Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Assembly, he spearheaded the UDF’s campaigns both inside and outside the House.

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala and Congress MP K. C. Venugopal were also among the prominent contenders considered for the Chief Minister’s post.