V D Satheesan (Congress) has been appointed as the chief minister of Kerala following a decisive victory in the assembly elections.

The transition of power marks a significant shift in the state's governance after the United Democratic Front (UDF) secured a commanding majority. This victory allows the UDF to implement its legislative agenda without the need for fragile coalitions.

The UDF won 102 seats [1] in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, meeting the coalition's previous expectations of winning more than 100 seats [3]. Satheesan, who served as the party's legislative leader and was described as the architect of the UDF win, ascended to the chief minister's role following the results announced earlier this month.

A video of Satheesan celebrating the victory has since gone viral on social media [2]. In the footage, the new chief minister is seen sharing sweets, specifically laddu, with supporters to mark the occasion [2].

Satheesan's political base remains strong in the Ernakulam district. He has won the Paravur constituency five consecutive times [2], cementing his influence within the region and the party.

The celebration follows a period of intense campaigning across the state. Congress supporters have celebrated the elevation of Satheesan as a reward for his strategic leadership during the electoral cycle [2].

“The UDF won 102 seats in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections”

The UDF's victory with 102 seats provides a stable mandate for V D Satheesan's administration, reducing the likelihood of the legislative deadlock that often plagues coalition governments in the region. By securing a clear majority, the new government can pursue policy shifts and infrastructure projects with greater autonomy.