VD Satheesan Sworn in as Kerala Chief Minister with Full Cabinet

Thiruvananthapuram: Congress leader VD Satheesan took oath as Chief Minister of Kerala on Monday morning at the Central Stadium, marking a significant political shift in the state as the Congress-led United Democratic Front assumed power after a decade. 

Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath to Satheesan, who chose to take it in Malayalam. In a rare move not seen in 60 years, the entire cabinet of 21 members, including the Chief Minister, was sworn in together during the ceremony. The last such instance was in 1962 when R. Sankar took oath with his full team.

Historic Cabinet Formation

The development comes days after the UDF's decisive victory in the assembly elections, where the alliance secured 102 seats out of 140, with the Congress emerging as the single largest party winning 63. This result ended the 10-year rule of the Left Democratic Front led by Pinarayi Vijayan.

Senior Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were present at the venue, displaying unity. Rahul Gandhi and Satheesan shared a warm hug after the oath-taking. Outgoing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar also attended the event.

Several chief ministers from Congress-ruled states, including Karnataka's Siddaramaiah, Telangana's Revanth Reddy, and Himachal Pradesh's Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, graced the occasion. Shashi Tharoor was notably absent due to a foreign trip to Boston.

Ministers Take Oath

Among those who took oath were senior leaders like Ramesh Chennithala, K. Muraleedharan, PK Kunhalikutty, Mons Joseph, Sunny Joseph, and Shibu Baby John. Newer faces in the cabinet included 14 first-time ministers such as PC Vishnunadh, Roji M. John, Bindhu Krishna, N. Samsudheen, CP John, and others.

Congress leaders expressed optimism and a sense of responsibility. PC Vishnunadh described the moment as "a proud moment and a great responsibility," adding that portfolios would be decided soon. Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan acknowledged the challenging role ahead but pledged to work for success, noting it as a "liberation of a generation."

Ground Reactions and Political Context

The swearing-in ceremony drew large crowds and reflected the enthusiasm among Congress workers who had long awaited this day. Congress MP K Suresh termed it a celebration of victory, while Shafi Parambil promised to fulfil all election commitments made to the people.

The selection of Satheesan as Chief Minister followed some internal deliberations. While Rahul Gandhi was initially inclined towards KC Venugopal, strong support from party workers and allies in Kerala tilted the balance in favour of Satheesan, a seasoned leader with deep roots in the state unit.

Opposition Voices

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain reacted by saying that while Kerala would have a Congress government, the agenda would be dictated by the Muslim League, and that the BJP would keep a close watch. The presence of UDF allies, including the Indian Union Muslim League, has been a point of political commentary.

What Lies Ahead

The new government is expected to hold its first cabinet meeting soon to take key decisions. With 14 fresh faces in the ministry, the focus will likely be on delivering on promises related to governance, development, and addressing local issues that contributed to the UDF's strong mandate.

Satheesan, aged 61, brings experience as a long-time Congress legislator and state leader. His leadership will now be tested as he steers the coalition government through its initial months.

The ceremony at the Central Stadium unfolded smoothly under clear skies, with tight security and visible excitement among supporters who gathered since early morning. Many viewed the event not just as a change of guard but as a new chapter for Kerala politics after years of Left rule. 

As the new team settles in, attention will turn to policy priorities and how the Congress-led dispensation balances coalition compulsions with effective administration in the state.