Kerala's UDF Finalizes Cabinet Ahead of Swearing-In Ceremony
Kerala politics LIVE: Congress-led UDF locked in last-minute consultations on govt. formation
Image: The Hindu
The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala is in final discussions to finalize its Cabinet ahead of the swearing-in ceremony on May 18, 2026. Chief Minister-designate V.D. Satheesan is advocating for the inclusion of women and younger legislators in his Cabinet, which will consist of 20 ministers, with the Congress party holding 11 portfolios.
- 01The deadline for submitting the final list of ministers to Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar is 2 p.m. on May 18, 2026.
- 02Chief Minister-designate V.D. Satheesan is advocating for the inclusion of women, specifically Bindu Krishna and Shanimol Usman, in the Cabinet.
- 03Younger legislators, such as Chandy Oommen and V.T. Balaram, are also being considered for ministerial positions.
- 04The United Democratic Front (UDF) is returning to power a decade after losing it, marking a significant political shift in Kerala.
- 05The Congress party is expected to hold 11 portfolios in the new Cabinet, including the Speaker's position, with Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan as a potential candidate for that role.
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As the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) prepares for its swearing-in ceremony on May 18, 2026, the leadership is engaged in intense last-minute discussions to finalize the Cabinet. The deadline for submitting the ministerial list to Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar is set for 2 p.m. on the same day. Chief Minister-designate V.D. Satheesan is advocating for the inclusion of women in the Cabinet, specifically Bindu Krishna and Shanimol Usman. Additionally, there is a push for younger legislators, such as Chandy Oommen and V.T. Balaram, to be included in the government. This marks a significant moment for the UDF, as it prepares to return to power a decade after losing control in Kerala. The new Cabinet will consist of 20 ministers, with the Congress party expected to hold 11 portfolios, including the Speaker's role. Senior leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan is being considered for this key position. The unfolding political dynamics in Kerala reflect a shift in alliances and strategies as the UDF aims to solidify its governance in the state.
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The formation of the new government will affect governance policies and political dynamics in Kerala, impacting various sectors including education, health, and infrastructure.
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