The race for the next KPCC president has taken a dramatic turn, with Shafi Parambil MP being dropped from contention in a major twist. The discussions in Delhi have narrowed down to five prominent leaders, but the initial frontrunner has been sidelined due to complex factional equations within the Kerala Congress.

With the UDF government now in power, the high command faces the delicate task of selecting a leader capable of steering the party forward. The A-group, I-group, and KC Venugopal camp have all been lobbying intensely in Delhi for their preferred candidates.

The five names under active consideration are Joseph Vazhakkan, Benny Behanan, Kodikkunnil Suresh, Mathew Kuzhalnadan, and Adoor Prakash. Shafi Parambil was initially seen as the almost-certain choice, enjoying strong backing from KC Venugopal. However, Chief Minister VD Satheeshan’s faction strongly opposed Shafi’s candidature on the grounds of maintaining caste and community equations in the state.

This opposition forced KC Venugopal to temporarily set aside Shafi’s name. Venugopal has now pivoted to his next trusted lieutenant, Mathew Kuzhalnadan, as his preferred candidate for the top post. However, with most key portfolios in the new UDF cabinet already held by the Venugopal camp, Chief Minister Satheeshan and Ramesh Chennithala are resisting giving the party’s highest state position entirely to the same faction.

Meanwhile, the traditional A-group is pushing for Benny Behanan MP, citing his long parliamentary experience and organizational skills. There is also a strong demand within the A-group to make Chandy Oommen, son of the late Oommen Chandy, the KPCC president, leveraging the emotional connect and his youth appeal.

Ramesh Chennithala has put forward Joseph Vazhakkan’s name, emphasizing his long organizational experience and oratory skills. However, sources indicate Vazhakkan is trailing behind the other contenders.

Adding to the complexity, Kodikkunnil Suresh MP has been directly lobbying AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, though KC Venugopal managed to counter this move early on.

The contest had effectively narrowed down to Shafi Parambil versus Benny Behanan before the big twist removed Shafi from the race. Now, with KC Venugopal firmly holding his ground, Mathew Kuzhalnadan emerges as the most likely candidate. The upcoming high command meetings in Delhi will be crucial in determining the future of Kerala Congress politics.