Daijiworld Media Network - Trivandrum
Trivandrum, May 18: The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is set to officially assume power in Kerala on Monday, with Chief Minister-designate V.D. Satheesan scheduled to take oath at a grand ceremony at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
The swearing-in event marks the UDF’s return to governance in the state after a gap of ten years, following its emphatic victory in the recent Assembly elections.
Top Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and party president Mallikarjun Kharge, are expected to attend the ceremony. Chief ministers from several Congress-ruled states are also likely to be present at the event.
Ahead of assuming office, Satheesan on Sunday met Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, popularly known as Cleemis Bava, and sought his blessings. The Cardinal serves as the Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and heads the Archdiocese of Trivandrum.
Sharing details of the meeting on social media platform X, Satheesan said he was grateful for the blessings and wishes extended by the Cardinal ahead of taking charge as Kerala’s Chief Minister.
He described the interaction as a source of inspiration and encouragement, adding that his government would remain committed to inclusive governance, communal harmony and the overall development of the state.
The incoming administration is expected to have a 21-member cabinet, including the Chief Minister. Political indications suggest that the Congress may secure 11 ministerial berths as part of the coalition arrangement.
Alliance partner Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) is likely to be allotted five ministerial positions. Senior leaders such as P.K. Kunhalikutty, K.M. Shaji, N. Shamsuddeen and Parakkal Abdulla are reportedly among the frontrunners for cabinet roles.
However, discussions within the IUML over the possible induction of P.K. Basheer have reportedly led to internal disagreements, with some party members expressing reservations regarding his inclusion.
The final list of ministers is expected to offer greater clarity on the power-sharing formula within the newly elected UDF government before the official swearing-in ceremony on Monday.