The Congress high command has called senior Kerala leaders to Delhi as the party continues to struggle over choosing the next chief minister after the UDF’s big election win in the state.
Several former Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chiefs and senior party leaders have been asked to attend discussions with the central leadership amid growing pressure to end the suspense over the top post.
The Congress-led United Democratic Front recently returned to power in Kerala after defeating the Left Democratic Front, but the party has not yet announced who will lead the new government. The delay has triggered intense discussions within the party and sparked speculation over internal differences.
Senior leaders V. D. Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala and K. C. Venugopal are being seen as the main contenders for the chief minister’s post.
Party sources said the Congress leadership is trying to build consensus and avoid factional tensions before making a final decision. Leaders in Delhi are reportedly holding separate meetings with senior Kerala Congress figures to understand their views and find a solution acceptable to all groups.
The delay has also created concern among alliance partners and party workers, many of whom expected the chief minister announcement soon after the election results. Some leaders from the Indian Union Muslim League have publicly urged the Congress to resolve the issue quickly and avoid confusion among supporters.
According to reports, senior Congress leaders including Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi are closely monitoring the discussions.
Political observers say the leadership decision is important for the Congress as it prepares to return to power in Kerala after ten years in opposition. The party is expected to announce its final decision after consultations in Delhi over the next few days.
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