The majority of the 21 newly elected Congress MLAs from the Malabar region in Kerala have expressed their support for K.C. Venugopal (AICC general secretary) as the next Chief Minister. This bloc includes four MLAs from Malappuram, three from Kannur, and two from Kasaragod, among others. They reportedly proposed Venugopal's name during meetings with AICC observers. However, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), the second-largest member of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), has indicated its preference for V.D. Satheesan, complicating the race. IUML leaders, including national general secretary P.K. Kunhalikutty, have stated that while they have conveyed their opinion to AICC observers, the final decision lies with the Congress and will reflect the sentiments of the people. This dynamic sets the stage for a significant political decision ahead of the assembly elections in 2026.