Congress President Kharge to Hold Crucial Talks on Kerala CM Selection

Amid an ongoing internal crisis within the Indian National Congress regarding the selection of the Chief Minister for Kerala, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge is scheduled to hold critical discussions with senior state leaders on the evening of May 9, 2026. The meeting will involve key contenders, including K.C. Venugopal, V.D. Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala, alongside KPCC President Sunny Joseph. Sources indicate that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi plans to meet with Kerala leaders only after a consensus is reached during Kharge’s chaired session. The high command aims to finalize the decision based on reports from AICC observers, emphasizing the need to keep prospective candidates confident while maintaining strict party discipline. Tensions have escalated with factional supporters displaying flex boards and engaging in protests, including defacement of campaign materials in Malappuram. While KPCC asserts it has no role in the final appointment, leaders like K. Muraleedharan advocate for considering United Democratic Front allies' views. The central leadership has warned against actions tarnishing the party’s image, asserting that public campaigns will not influence the ultimate choice for the chief ministerial post.