New Delhi, May 18 : Kerala is set to witness a major political transition on Monday as the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) prepares to form the new government under the leadership of Chief Minister designate V. D. Satheesan. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on May 18.
The event marks the UDF’s return to power in the state after nearly ten years, following its strong performance in the recently concluded Assembly elections. Political leaders, party workers and supporters are expected to gather in large numbers for the ceremony.
Several prominent Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge, are likely to attend the swearing-in event. Chief ministers from various Congress ruled states are also expected to participate in the programme.
Ahead of assuming office, Satheesan met Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, popularly known as Cleemis Bava, on Sunday and sought his blessings. The Cardinal serves as the Major Archbishop Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and the Major Archbishop of Trivandrum.
Sharing details of the meeting on social media platform X, Satheesan said he received blessings and warm wishes before taking charge as Kerala’s Chief Minister. He described the Cardinal’s message as a source of encouragement and reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and the overall development of the state.
The incoming government is expected to have a 21-member cabinet, including the Chief Minister. According to political sources, the Congress is likely to secure 11 ministerial berths as part of the coalition arrangement.
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key UDF ally, is expected to receive five cabinet positions. Leaders such as P. K. Kunhalikutty, K. M. Shaji, N. Shamsuddeen and Parakkal Abdulla are reportedly among the frontrunners for ministerial roles.
However, discussions within the IUML over the possible inclusion of P. K. Basheer are said to have triggered internal differences, with some party members expressing reservations regarding his elevation to the cabinet.
The final list of ministers is expected to be announced ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, offering a clearer picture of the power-sharing formula within the newly elected UDF administration.