KC Venugopal, who has been instrumental in managing party affairs for the Indian National Congress from Delhi, is now a leading candidate for the Chief Minister position in Kerala following the Congress-led United Democratic Front's (UDF) decisive victory in the recent assembly elections, securing 102 seats in a 140-member assembly. The Congress party, which won 63 seats on its own, faces a three-way contest for the chief ministership, revealing divisions between the central leadership and state-level workers. As of now, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have yet to announce a final decision, with the deadline for government formation approaching on May 23. Venugopal, who has served as General Secretary (Organisation) of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) since 2019, is viewed as a trusted ally of Gandhi and Kharge, and has substantial political experience, including previous roles as a minister in Kerala and a Lok Sabha member. Despite his backing from a majority of Congress MLAs, public preference may lean towards rival VD Satheesan, who has significant support from the Indian Union Muslim League. The final decision will rest with the Congress high command, with party members expected to accept the outcome.