By Mallumetro Political Desk
As the dust settles on a historic election that saw the UDF win 102 seats, the coalition is now entering the critical phase of government formation. With several veteran ministers from the previous LDF cabinet defeated, a new generation of leadership is prepared to step into the Kerala Secretariat.
The Race for the Chief Minister’s Office
While the Congress “High Command” will make the final decision, three names have emerged as frontrunners for the Chief Ministerial post:
- V.D. Satheesan (Paravur): Widely credited as the face of the UDF campaign, Satheesan secured a commanding win in Paravur with a margin of over 11,000 votes. His performance as the Leader of the Opposition has made him a natural favorite for the top job.
- Sunny Joseph (Peravoor): The Kerala Congress President and a strong voice from the Malabar region, Joseph successfully led the party through this transition and is considered a key contender for a high-profile role.
- Ramesh Chennithala: A veteran leader with extensive administrative experience, Chennithala remains a powerful influence within the party and a potential candidate for leadership.
Key Cabinet Prospects from the Congress
The new cabinet is expected to blend experience with fresh energy. Probable ministerial faces include:
- Chandy Oommen (Puthuppally): Expected to continue the legacy of his father, Oommen Chandy, in a significant role.
- T. Siddique (Kalpetta): A prominent youth face of the party who secured a vital win in Wayanad.
- V.T. Balram (Thrithala): Known for his sharp parliamentary presence, Balram is likely to return to a major portfolio.
- Dr. Mathew Kuzhalnadan (Muvattupuzha): His strong legal background and vocal opposition in the previous assembly make him a prime candidate for the Law or Industries ministry.
The IUML’s Powerhouse Presence
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), having secured a record 22 seats, will demand a significant share of the cabinet.
- P.K. Kunhalikutty (Malappuram): With a massive victory margin of over 85,000 votes, the veteran leader is almost certain to take a senior ministerial position, possibly overseeing Industries or Finance.
- P.K. Firos (Koduvally): A dynamic youth leader who secured a victory with a margin of 36,000+ votes.
- Fathima Thahiliya (Perambra): Having made history as the IUML’s first woman MLA, she is a strong candidate for a ministerial berth, potentially in Social Justice or Women and Child Welfare.
Allied Voices
- Mani C. Kappan (Pala): After retaining his seat, Kappan is expected to represent the smaller allies in the new cabinet.
- Mons Joseph (Kaduthuruthy): A senior leader from the Kerala Congress (J) who will likely secure a ministerial spot.
The Mallumetro Take: The 2026 Cabinet will likely see a record number of young ministers and a stronger representation from the Malabar region. As the UDF prepares to take the oath of office, the challenge will be balancing regional and communal equations while delivering on their promise of economic stability.
