Even before the new Congress-led government in Kerala formally takes oath, the party leadership has launched intensive behind-the-scenes efforts to contain the first signs of internal friction. At the heart of this delicate exercise is senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, who is understood to be deeply disappointed at being passed over for the Chief Minister's post despite his extensive administrative and organisational track record.

Satheesan's Surprise Elevation and the Fallout

V. D. Satheesan emerged as the consensus choice for the top post — a decision that reportedly caught many within the party off guard. With Satheesan set to lead the government, the Congress high command is now focused on ensuring Chennithala remains firmly embedded in the power structure of the incoming administration. In what party insiders describe as a calculated first move, Satheesan paid a courtesy visit to Chennithala on Friday, signalling the leadership's determination to prevent any public display of factional bitterness.

Weekend Outreach and the Venugopal Meeting

The reconciliation effort is expected to intensify on Saturday, when All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K. C. Venugopal — himself reportedly among those who did not make the chief ministerial cut — is likely to hold detailed discussions with Chennithala. The meeting is being closely watched within Congress circles as the party attempts to project unity ahead of Monday's swearing-in ceremony.

State party president Sunny Joseph, speaking after his own meeting with Venugopal, struck a reassuring note. 'Everything is going smoothly, and all issues would be addressed, and the end will be a smooth affair,' Joseph said.

The Cabinet and the Home Portfolio Question

The biggest unresolved question revolves around cabinet composition and portfolio allocation. During the Oommen Chandy government, Chennithala had secured the powerful home portfolio after a period of political waiting. Whether he can reclaim the same prized department in the Satheesan cabinet is now one of the most closely discussed subjects within the party. Negotiations over cabinet berths, influential portfolios, and power-sharing arrangements are expected to continue through the weekend.

Stakes for the Satheesan Government

For the Congress leadership, the stakes are considerable. Chennithala remains one of the party's most experienced faces in Kerala politics, with significant influence across organisational and community networks. Party insiders warn that if his name does not figure prominently in Monday's swearing-in list, it could become the very first flashpoint of dissatisfaction for the Satheesan government — even before it has had a chance to settle into office. This comes amid broader pressure on Congress to project cohesion after returning to power with what the party describes as a massive mandate. For Satheesan, managing governance may only begin after managing Congress itself.