The Congress party's attempt to appoint a Chief Minister for Kerala remains at a standstill following a three-hour meeting on May 9, 2026, led by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi. They consulted with three main contenders: K.C. Venugopal, V.D. Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala, along with KPCC president Sunny Joseph and AICC observers. Despite their efforts, no consensus was reached, and the high command has until May 23 to make a final decision. Deepa Dasmunsi, party general secretary in charge of Kerala, emphasized the need for party unity and urged workers to remove public displays supporting their preferred candidates, which have created tension within the party. The contenders are making competing claims, with Venugopal highlighting his legislative support, Satheesan citing his leadership role in recent electoral victories, and Chennithala asserting his seniority. The situation has been exacerbated by public displays of favoritism, leading to calls for discipline within the party as they navigate this critical decision.