Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Thiruvananthapuram, May 17: The final round of discussions on cabinet formation for the incoming government led by chief minister-designate V D Satheesan is expected to conclude on Sunday, ahead of the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Monday.

According to officials and political sources, the final list of ministers will be submitted to the Governor around 2 p.m. on Sunday, with intensive consultations continuing between alliance partners and senior leadership throughout the day.

Congress representative and Kerala in-charge Deepa Dasmunshi confirmed that discussions are progressing and a final decision on cabinet composition is expected later in the day.

The new government is expected to have a 21-member cabinet, including the Chief Minister. Early indications suggest that the Congress will hold 11 ministerial positions, including key portfolios.

Several senior Congress leaders are likely to be inducted into the cabinet, with names such as Ramesh Chennithala, Sunny Joseph, K. Muraleedharan, Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, A.P. Anil Kumar, P.C. Vishnunath, M. Liju, Chandy Oommen, and Bindu Krishna reportedly in contention.

Sources indicate that Satheesan may retain the Finance portfolio, while final allocation of departments will be confirmed after official approval of the cabinet list.

Coalition partner Indian Union Muslim League (Indian Union Muslim League) is expected to secure five ministerial positions. Leaders such as P.K. Kunhalikutty, K.M. Shaji, N. Shamsuddeen, and Parakkal Abdulla are among those under consideration.

However, internal differences have reportedly emerged within the IUML over the possible inclusion of P.K. Basheer, with some sections opposing his elevation.

The final cabinet announcement is expected to clarify the power-sharing structure within the newly formed UDF-led government ahead of the official swearing-in ceremony on Monday.