Kerala witnessed a major political transition on Monday as V.D. Satheesan took oath as the 13th Chief Minister of Kerala, leading the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government back to power after ten years. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram and drew the presence of senior Congress leaders and alliance members.
Along with Satheesan, 20 ministers were sworn in, forming a 21-member Cabinet that combines experienced leaders with several new faces. The Cabinet includes 14 first-time ministers and aims to ensure regional and social representation across the state.
The ceremony was attended by Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and other senior leaders were also present at the event.
The Cabinet formation process witnessed intense discussions within the Congress and alliance partners over representation and portfolio allocation. Reports indicated that senior Congress leader K.C. Venugopal played a significant role in shaping the Cabinet and finalising ministerial appointments, reflecting his influence in the party’s Kerala affairs.
The UDF secured a strong mandate in the Assembly elections by winning 102 seats in the 140-member House, ending a decade-long Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in the state.
With the swearing-in completed, focus has now shifted to portfolio allocation and the new government’s immediate priorities. The UDF leadership has said it will concentrate on implementing key promises and strengthening governance as it begins a new term in office.
