KeralaPolitics – Congress Faces Questions Over Delay in Naming State Chief Minister
KeralaPolitics – The Congress party is facing mounting criticism over the delay in selecting Kerala’s next Chief Minister despite its commanding victory in the recently concluded Assembly elections. The issue drew sharp remarks from BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla, who accused the party of creating unnecessary uncertainty after receiving a strong public mandate.
BJP Targets Congress Over Leadership Delay
Addressing reporters on Wednesday, Poonawalla mocked the prolonged wait for an official announcement from the Congress leadership. He remarked that even after several days, the party had failed to present its Chief Ministerial choice before the public. Using a symbolic reference, he said he had brought binoculars to “search” for Kerala’s next Chief Minister, questioning why the decision was still pending despite voters delivering a clear verdict.
He further alleged that the Congress party was struggling with internal disagreements and indecision. According to him, the Bharatiya Janata Party had moved swiftly to establish governments and begin administrative work in states where elections were recently held, while Congress was still unable to finalise leadership in Kerala.
Consultations Continue in New Delhi
The delay comes as senior Congress leaders continue discussions in New Delhi regarding the top post in the state. The party’s central leadership has been holding a series of meetings to arrive at a consensus candidate capable of leading the new government.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi reportedly met with key contenders and senior Kerala leaders as part of the consultation process.
Among those involved in the discussions were K.C. Venugopal, Ramesh Chennithala, V.D. Satheesan and Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chief Sunny Joseph. Party observers Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik also attended the meetings held over the weekend.
Multiple Rounds of Discussions Held
Sources within the party indicated that conversations were conducted both collectively and individually with senior leaders to assess political equations and organisational priorities. The meetings reportedly lasted several hours, reflecting the importance of the decision for the Congress leadership.
The party is attempting to balance internal dynamics while ensuring stability for the incoming government. Political observers believe the leadership selection could influence the direction of the Congress organisation in Kerala over the coming years.
Congress-Led UDF Returns to Power
The Congress-led United Democratic Front secured a major electoral victory in Kerala, bringing an end to ten years of Left Democratic Front rule in the state. The UDF won 102 seats in the 140-member Assembly, giving the alliance a comfortable majority and a strong mandate to govern.
The Left Democratic Front, which had been in power for two consecutive terms, saw its tally reduced significantly to 35 seats. The result marked one of the most decisive Assembly victories for the Congress-led alliance in recent years.
BJP Improves Presence in Kerala Assembly
Although not a major force in the state, the Bharatiya Janata Party managed to register victories in three Assembly constituencies. The party won seats in Nemom, Kazhakuttam and Chathannoor, improving its visibility in Kerala’s political landscape.
Political analysts say the coming days will be crucial for Congress as supporters and party workers await clarity on who will lead the new administration. With expectations high following the alliance’s strong electoral performance, pressure is increasing on the leadership to conclude the decision-making process quickly and begin government formation activities.