CM Will Not Be Decided by Number of Flex Boards or Through Social Media: Ramesh Chennithala

New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has asserted that the decision on Kerala’s next Chief Minister will be made solely by the party high command, dismissing the relevance of social media campaigns and public displays of support.

His remarks come amid an intense internal contest within the Congress following the UDF’s electoral victory, with strong online campaigns backing V D Satheesan. Political observers interpret Chennithala’s statement as a subtle yet pointed response to these developments.

“Everyone is free to put up flex boards or express opinions on social media. But leadership decisions in the Congress are not influenced by such pressures,” Chennithala said, emphasizing that the high command would take a final call only after considering all aspects.

The leadership tussle has intensified as multiple senior figures stake their claim for the Chief Minister’s post. Chennithala’s visit to New Delhi to meet Sonia Gandhi has added to the speculation surrounding the final decision.

Meanwhile, AICC-appointed observers, including Mukul Wasnik and Ajay Maken, are expected to arrive in Kerala to hold consultations with party legislators. Their report will be submitted to the central leadership, following which Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are likely to make the official announcement.

Alongside Chennithala and Satheesan, K C Venugopal has also emerged as an important contender, further intensifying the internal conflict. The Congress now faces the challenge of managing internal divisions even as it prepares to form the next government in the state.