VD Satheesan took the oath of office as the Chief Minister of Kerala on May 18, 2026 [5].
The transition marks a significant political shift in the state, as the United Democratic Front (UDF) coalition returns to government after a 10-year period out of power [4].
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Governor’s residence in Thiruvananthapuram. During the proceedings, Satheesan said he announced a cabinet consisting of 20 members [1]. Among the senior leaders named to the cabinet is Ramesh Chennithala.
The UDF victory was decisive, with the coalition securing 102 of the 140 total seats in the Kerala Assembly [2, 3]. This majority allows the new administration to implement its legislative agenda without the immediate need for further coalition negotiations.
Party leadership selected Satheesan for the role based on his previous performance as the Leader of the Opposition. His appointment signals a strategic choice by the Congress party high-command to lead the state through this new term.
The ceremony was attended by senior political figures, including Rahul Gandhi and other high-ranking members of the coalition. The event serves as the formal start of the UDF administration's efforts to govern the state after a decade in the political wilderness.
“The UDF coalition ends a decade out of power”
The return of the UDF to power after 10 years suggests a significant shift in voter sentiment in Kerala. By securing a substantial majority of 102 seats, the Satheesan administration possesses a strong mandate to enact policy changes and reverse the legislative trends of the previous decade.
