In light of the ongoing crisis within the Congress party regarding the selection of a Chief Minister for Kerala, All India Congress Committee (AICC) president Mallikarjun Kharge is set to convene a meeting with prominent leaders including K.C. Venugopal, V.D. Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala on May 9, 2026. This meeting aims to reach a consensus on the crucial post amid various internal conflicts and factional campaigns. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has instructed that any decision should involve the three prospective candidates, although the ultimate authority lies with the Congress high command. Kharge has also warned against any actions that could damage the party's reputation. Meanwhile, KPCC president Sunny Joseph stated that the final decision rests with the high command, and K. Muraleedharan has called for broader consensus, stressing that seniority alone should not dictate the choice of Chief Minister. Tensions are evident as supporters of different factions have been actively campaigning, with protests and defaced flex boards reported in various locations, including Thiruvananthapuram and Malappuram.