New Delhi

Uncertainty over Kerala’s next Chief Minister continues for the 10th day. Although there is growing expectation that the high command may take a decision today, the Muslim League’s position and the political developments in Delhi are reportedly delaying the announcement.

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala remains highly confident that the high command is seriously considering him for the Chief Minister’s post. Unlike the flex-board wars and public protests witnessed in recent days, Chennithala has stayed away from open campaigning. Currently occupied with temple visits, he is reportedly maintaining the stance that he will respond publicly only after the high command’s announcement. His camp claims there are no signs of anxiety on his face and that he remains “cool” and relaxed.

Meanwhile, supporters of VD Satheesan are firm that he will become the Chief Minister. Their main argument is that, as Leader of the Opposition, Satheesan led the UDF effectively over the past 5 years and currently enjoys strong public support. Muslim League leader Abdul Gafoor, who won from Kalamassery, and Ernakulam DCC president Mohammed Shiyas visited Satheesan at his residence in Aluva on Wednesday morning. Party workers believe the high command is unlikely to make a different choice. Indications suggest that the delay in the announcement is mainly because the Congress is waiting for the Muslim League’s final position. The Congress high command is expected to officially announce its decision only after the League’s crucial leadership meeting in Malappuram. Reports earlier suggested that the high command had already narrowed down its choice to one name. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are likely to meet today after taking the League’s opinion into account, following which the announcement may come.

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At the same time, senior leader Sonia Gandhi has been admitted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram for a minor surgery. Reports indicate that Rahul Gandhi is currently in Delhi but has not yet visited the hospital. AICC general secretary KC Venugopal continues to stay at his Delhi residence. Former KPCC presidents VM Sudheeran and K Sudhakaran are also in Delhi. Sudheeran has reportedly informed the high command about the growing public frustration in Kerala over the delay. Meanwhile, leaders supporting KC Venugopal, including Shafi Parambil and AP Anil Kumar, are facing intense cyberattacks on social media. Kerala leaders and allied partners have reportedly informed the high command that the prolonged delay is overshadowing the alliance’s electoral victory. Although many expected an announcement before noon today, AICC sources are currently unwilling to specify an exact time. There are also rumours that AICC general secretary Deepa Das Munshi may arrive in Kerala to formally announce the decision.