KC Venugopal in the race to next chief minister of Kerala

KC Venugopal is “way ahead” in the race to be named the next chief minister of Kerala, Congress sources told. After observers Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik submitted their report to party chief Mallikarjun Kharge. Maken and Wasnik said the final decision would be made by the party based on views from incoming lawmakers, alliance partners, and the public.

The party also wants to finalise the name as soon as possible, sources said.

Venugopal leads a shortlist of names that includes VD Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing House, and Ramesh Chennithala, a veteran with strong organisational support. The 63-year-old is the Congress’ General Secretary and also the Lok Sabha member for Alappuzha, a seat he will be required to resign if picked as the next Kerala chief minister.(updated on 8th may 2026)