On Tuesday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi convened a meeting with senior party leaders from Kerala to address the ongoing impasse regarding the selection of the new chief minister for the United Democratic Front (UDF). Following a decisive victory in the recent state elections, where the UDF secured 102 of 140 Assembly seats, the party is now focused on finalizing its leadership. A decision is expected today. Among the leaders present, six supported KC Venugopal for the chief minister position, while two backed VD Satheesan, a senior Kerala Congress leader. The other contender, Ramesh Chennithala, was also mentioned. Gandhi's consultations included former Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) presidents and working presidents, aiming to consolidate support for Venugopal. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a significant partner in the UDF, has emphasized the importance of public sentiment in the decision-making process, suggesting that a leader with mass support should be chosen. The IUML plans to hold a crucial meeting to discuss its stance on the Congress's CM choice amid concerns that the delay could tarnish the UDF's recent electoral success.