The All India Congress Committee has announced VD Satheesan as the new Chief Minister of Kerala, ending days of suspense and intense speculation following the party's decisive victory in the Assembly elections.

Although a majority of MLAs were believed to be backing KC Venugopal, public sentiment in the state, the views of coalition partners, and the firm stand taken by three former KPCC presidents played a decisive role in the high command's decision to back Satheesan. His image as the leader who delivered a resounding victory ultimately persuaded the party leadership to choose him for the top post.

The UDF returned to power with 102 seats, ending the 10-year rule of the CPM-led government under Pinarayi Vijayan. The Congress Legislature Party meeting had passed a resolution authorising the high command to decide the Chief Minister. AICC observers Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik held discussions with MLAs, and the final decision was taken after consultations with Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi.

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