Is V.M. Sudheeran Poised to Enter Kerala's CM Race?
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Synopsis
The political landscape in Kerala is shifting as veteran leader V.M. Sudheeran re-emerges in the Congress party, raising questions about his potential candidacy for the Chief Minister role ahead of the upcoming elections.
Key Takeaways
- V.M. Sudheeran's re-emergence in Kerala politics could reshape the CM race.
- The Kazhakootam Assembly has historical significance for the Congress party.
- Sudheeran's grassroots campaigning may indicate strategic positioning within the party.
- Political dynamics are shifting as Congress prepares for the 2025 Assembly elections.
- The influence of Delhi leadership continues to impact candidate selections.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 27 (NationPress) While the ruling Congress in Karnataka grapples with its internal power struggles regarding the Chief Minister's position, the Kerala branch of the party is starting to exhibit signs of a similar political upheaval just months before the Assembly elections scheduled for April/May 2025.
What was previously viewed as a three-way contest for the top role has now broadened, introducing a fourth—unexpected—contender: the seasoned leader V.M. Sudheeran.
The 77-year-old former KPCC president, celebrated for his impeccable reputation, extensive legislative experience, and moral standing within the party, seems to be subtly re-emerging into the limelight.
His recent involvement in grassroots campaigning for the forthcoming local body elections, particularly in the Congress-sensitive Kazhakootam Assembly area, has injected a fresh twist into Kerala's political scenario.
Sudheeran, who has served as a four-time MP and thrice-elected MLA (1980–1996), along with roles as former Speaker, Minister, and Congress state leader until 2017, has not participated in elections since his surprising loss in the 2004 Lok Sabha elections.
His unexpected return to the campaign scene has raised eyebrows, especially given Kazhakootam's symbolic significance—it was here that A.K. Antony contested a bye-election after assuming the Chief Minister role in 1977.
This constituency, once a stronghold for Congress, has seen its dominance diminish since M.A. Waheed's consecutive victories in 2011.
Sudheeran's revival efforts are being interpreted as more than mere goodwill politics.
Within Congress circles, there’s growing chatter that Sudheeran could be positioning himself for a prominent role if the party manages a comeback.
Previously, the main contenders for the top position were AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan, and his predecessor Ramesh Chennithala. However, Sudheeran's status as a 'high-command favorite' and his surprising ascent to KPCC president in 2014, bypassing several active leaders, makes this a serious possibility.
The past interventions by Congress leadership, including the selection of Satheesan over Chennithala as Opposition Leader in 2021—despite the parliamentary party backing Chennithala—have illustrated that decisions made in Delhi hold significant influence.
As one party insider remarked, 'In Congress, names don’t always emerge from the list. Sometimes, they emerge from silence.'
With Sudheeran breaking his silence, the CM race in Kerala now has a new dimension—and a potential frontrunner.
Point of View
The emergence of V.M. Sudheeran in Kerala's political landscape highlights the complexities of party dynamics and leadership roles within the Congress. His re-entry could indicate a strategic move to regain lost ground, reflecting ongoing tensions and opportunities within the party as it prepares for upcoming elections. The situation warrants close observation as it unfolds.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is V.M. Sudheeran?
V.M. Sudheeran is a veteran Congress leader in Kerala, known for his clean image and extensive political experience, including serving as a four-time MP and KPCC president.
What is the significance of Kazhakootam Assembly?
Kazhakootam Assembly holds historical significance for Congress as it was the constituency where A.K. Antony contested after becoming Chief Minister in 1977.
What does Sudheeran's return signify?
Sudheeran's return to campaigning suggests he may be positioning himself for a larger role within the Congress party, especially as the party approaches the 2025 Assembly elections.
Who are the current contenders for the CM position?
The current contenders for the Kerala CM position include AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan, and Ramesh Chennithala.
How has Congress leadership influenced candidate selection?
Congress leadership has historically influenced candidate selection, as seen in the decision-making process that favored Satheesan over Chennithala for the Opposition Leader role in 2021.
