NEW DELHI/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite the sweeping victory of the UDF in the Kerala Assembly elections, the path to government formation has hit a snag. Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala is reportedly deeply dissatisfied with the party High Command's apparent inclination to overlook his seniority for the Chief Minister's post.
As deliberations continue in the national capital, sources close to Chennithala suggest he feels "sidelined" despite his relentless efforts in the opposition and his role in orchestrating the front's return to power. The veteran leader, who has previously served as Home Minister and KPCC President, reportedly believes that bypassing him would send a wrong signal to the party's loyalist base.
The High Command is currently favoring a leadership transition, with names like V.D. Satheesan gaining significant traction among the newly elected MLAs and the youth wing. While Chennithala has not made a public statement, his absence from certain informal victory gatherings and his firm stance during private meetings with observers indicate a brewing storm. The party leadership is now working overtime to pacify the veteran leader, potentially offering a high-profile cabinet portfolio or a national role to ensure a smooth transition of power.