The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has emerged victorious in the Kerala Assembly elections, winning 102 out of 140 seats. As deliberations continue for the next chief minister, three candidates are leading the race: VD Satheesan, KC Venugopal, and Ramesh Chennithala. VD Satheesan, the outgoing leader of the opposition, has garnered significant support, particularly after the UDF's success in the recent elections, where it won 18 of 20 Lok Sabha seats. His supporters have been vocal in demanding his appointment as chief minister. KC Venugopal, the AICC general secretary, is also a strong contender due to his close relationship with the Congress leadership and his role in the party's campaign strategy. Ramesh Chennithala, a former home minister, has a long-standing association with the party and won from the Haripad seat for a sixth term. The Congress party is expected to finalize its decision on the chief minister within a couple of days, following consultations with MLAs and senior leaders to ensure unity and prevent internal conflicts.