Kerala's LDF Secures Majority: Who Will Be the Next Chief Minister?

The Left Democratic Front (LDF) has achieved a majority in Kerala, marking a significant political shift after over a decade. As discussions unfold regarding the next Chief Minister, key figures like V. D. Satheesan and K. C. Venugopal are in the spotlight. Meanwhile, the BJP has criticized Congress for its internal conflicts and alleged 'culture of greed.' A leaked candidate list has sparked controversy, with some legislators expressing concerns over their representation. This evolving political scenario in Kerala promises to keep observers engaged as the state awaits its new leadership.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 8, 2026, 16:57 IST

LDF's Historic Majority in Kerala

The Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by Congress, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a majority in Kerala after more than a decade, paving the way for government formation. Attention is now focused on who will take the helm as the next Chief Minister of the state. Reports indicate that several names are being considered, including prominent Kerala Congress leader V. D. Satheesan and Congress General Secretary K. C. Venugopal. Furthermore, a list shared by the BJP's Kerala unit suggests that the party may have already selected its candidate.

BJP's Critique of Congress

A document displayed during a consultation meeting of the Congress legislative party, attended by AICC observer Mukul Wasnik, was shared on the official BJP Kerala page. In their post, BJP Kerala remarked that the ink from the voting process has barely dried, yet Congress's 'culture of greed' is suffocating Kerala. As the state awaits governance, Congress leaders are reportedly engaged in a poster war, leaking lists of legislators, and focusing on the vote count for the Chief Minister position.

Controversy Over Candidate Lists

The BJP further stated that a party incapable of electing a Chief Minister without street protests is unfit to lead the state. The leaked list includes names such as Sandeep Warrior, Saji Joseph, T. O. Mohanan, Sunny Joseph, Usha Vijayan, and T. Siddique, all marked with 'K.C.', which is interpreted as support for K. C. Venugopal in the race for Chief Minister. Additionally, I. C. Balakrishnan's name was reportedly followed by 'K.C.+R.C.', with 'R.C.' referring to senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, another contender for the position. However, Udhuma MLA Neelakantan claimed that despite informing AICC observers Mukul Wasnik and Ajay Maken of his preference, his name was left blank on the list.

Neelakantan's Concerns

Neelakantan expressed his confusion regarding the omission of his preference, stating, 'I saw the document. I don't understand why my priority wasn't recorded.' He mentioned that he has emailed AICC leaders Wasnik and Maken to file his complaint regarding this matter.