Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new UDF government [1].
The transition marks a significant political shift in Kerala. The victory ends a decade of rule by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and restores the United Democratic Front (UDF) to power.
The arrival of the top Congress leaders comes after the UDF secured a decisive majority in the 2026 Kerala assembly elections [1]. According to election results, the coalition won 102 of 140 seats [1]. This mandate allows the UDF to form a stable government and move forward with its legislative agenda for the state.
Security remained tight in Thiruvananthapuram as the city prepared for the official ceremony. The event serves as the formal induction of the new administration, which will be led by V D Satheesan [1].
The presence of the Gandhi family underscores the national importance the Congress party attaches to this victory. By attending the ceremony, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi signal a unified party front as the UDF takes over the administration of the southern state.
Local supporters gathered to welcome the leaders, reflecting the momentum gained during the 2026 campaign [1]. The UDF victory is seen as a rejection of the previous decade's policies under the LDF government.
“The victory ends a decade of rule by the Left Democratic Front (LDF).”
The UDF's majority win in the 2026 assembly elections represents a major realignment of power in Kerala. By securing 102 seats, the coalition has a clear mandate to dismantle LDF policies and implement its own governance model, while the high-profile attendance of national Congress leadership suggests this victory may be used as a blueprint for broader political strategies across India.
