Is the lot finally in favor of K C Venugopal? High command fast-tracking procedures, announcement likely today

NEW DELHI: Reports say K C Venugopal has emerged as the frontrunner in the final discussions over who will become Kerala’s next chief minister. The Congress high command is said to be fast-tracking the procedures, with indications that the announcement may come today or tomorrow. It is also being reported that there may not be a deputy chief minister post. Discussions are also underway on whether the announcement should be made in Kerala or in Delhi.

Earlier reports said Rahul Gandhi was of the stand that sidelining Venugopal, who reportedly enjoys the support of a majority of Congress MLAs, would not be appropriate. However, the central leadership is also concerned that choosing Venugopal, a parliament member over Ramesh Chennithala and V D Satheesan could trigger protests and internal unrest within the Kerala Congress unit. There are fears that factionalism among party workers could affect the smooth functioning of the government. Reports also say that Satheesan has informed Rahul Gandhi that he is not in favour of Venugopal becoming the chief minister.

Reports had emerged earlier that Mallikarjun Kharge proposed a compromise formula to share the chief minister’s post between Satheesan and Chennithala. According to sources close to the leadership, considering seniority, Chennithala should serve the first two-and-a-half years as chief minister, followed by Satheesan for the remaining term.

No discussions were held in Delhi yesterday. Rahul Gandhi was in Chennai to attend Vijay’s swearing-in ceremony and returned in the evening. Kharge, who had gone to Bengaluru following the demise of a Karnataka minister, is expected to return to Delhi today evening. Before taking a final decision, both leaders are expected to seek the opinions of Sonia Gandhi and senior Congress leader A K Antony. The chief minister is likely to be announced today or tomorrow.