KC Venugopal Reacts After Kerala Leadership Decision
Senior Congress leader K. C. Venugopal on Monday dismissed speculation of internal disappointment after V. D. Satheesan took oath as the new Chief Minister of Kerala.
Venugopal, who was widely seen as one of the strong contenders for the top post in the Congress-led United Democratic Front government, publicly congratulated Satheesan and reaffirmed his loyalty to the party leadership.
Reacting to a social media message posted by Rahul Gandhi praising his campaign role, Venugopal stressed that his focus had always been on ensuring the UDF’s return to power in Kerala.
“I Am a Dedicated Soldier of Congress”
In a detailed post, Venugopal said, “As a dedicated soldier of the Congress, bringing a UDF government in my home state Keralam has always been my mission.”
He also thanked Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and the party leadership for trusting him with responsibilities during the Assembly election campaign.
“I am grateful to INC President Mallikarjun Kharge ji, Rahul ji, and the entire Congress party for giving me the opportunity to contribute to this historic campaign,” he wrote.
The statement is being viewed as a direct attempt to put an end to rumours of dissatisfaction within sections of the Congress after the Chief Ministerial decision.
Venugopal further added, “As always, my best wishes to CM VD Satheesan for a successful tenure ahead.”
Ramesh Chennithala Also Sends Message Of Unity
Another senior Congress leader and former Chief Ministerial hopeful Ramesh Chennithala also signalled support for the new leadership shortly after the swearing-in ceremony.
Chennithala shared a photograph with Rahul Gandhi and posted a brief but politically significant message saying, “I am a true Congressman.”
The developments indicate efforts within the Congress to project unity following intense speculation over leadership choices in the newly elected Kerala government.
VD Satheesan Takes Oath With 20-Member Cabinet
Earlier in the day, VD Satheesan officially assumed office as Kerala Chief Minister during a grand swearing-in ceremony held at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
Along with Satheesan, a 20-member Cabinet also took oath, including senior Congress figures K. Muraleedharan and KPCC chief Sunny Joseph.
Leaders from the Indian Union Muslim League, including P. K. Kunhalikutty and P. K. Basheer, were also inducted into the ministry.
The Congress-led UDF returned to power in Kerala after a decade with a sweeping electoral victory in the 2026 Assembly elections.
