Thiruvananthapuram: Following the intense power struggle over the Chief Minister’s post, the Congress party in Kerala is now witnessing fresh political manoeuvring over the appointment of the next KPCC president.

With current KPCC president Sunny Joseph and working presidents A P Anil Kumar and P C Vishnunath becoming ministers in the new government, the party is expected to appoint a new leadership team to head the organisation. A replacement may also be considered for Youth Congress state president O J Janeesh, who has also joined the ministry.

Though official discussions on the new KPCC chief have not yet begun, several leaders have reportedly conveyed their interest to the high command.

The Congress leadership is believed to favour a KPCC president who would work in coordination with the government rather than confront it. The high command reportedly feels that a conflict between the government and the party organisation could weaken both administration and the party structure.

As a result, Chief Minister VD Satheesan is expected to have significant influence in the selection process.

The high command is also mindful of the recent internal divisions that emerged during the Chief Ministerial race, when the party was seen as split into multiple camps. The next party president is therefore expected to be someone capable of healing those differences and ensuring unity within the organisation.

Since key positions in the government are currently dominated by one faction, consideration for the KPCC president post may go to leaders from other groups within the party.

Kodikunnil Suresh has reportedly expressed interest in the post, arguing that no leader from the backward communities has held the position so far.

The names of Benny Behanan, Joseph Vazhakkan, Anto Antony, K C Joseph and Mathew Kuzhalnadan are also being discussed.

K C Joseph’s name has emerged based on his seniority, while Joseph Vazhakkan is reportedly staking a claim, citing a lack of adequate recognition despite being a senior leader.

If the party decides against appointing elected representatives to organisational posts, several contenders may be ruled out.

The selection of the KPCC president and working presidents is ultimately expected to depend entirely on the wishes of the Congress high command. However, if consensus emerges within the state unit, the decision-making process could become easier.