V.D. Satheesan Takes Oath as Kerala Chief Minister as UDF Returns to Power

Thiruvananthapuram, May 18, 2026 The swearing-in of V.D. Satheesan as Kerala’s new Chief Minister marks a significant political shift in the state, with the Congress-led United Democratic Front returning to power after ten years. The ceremony, held in Thiruvananthapuram, reflected the renewed momentum of the Congress in Kerala and highlighted the party’s efforts to regain political ground through strong regional leadership. A senior Congress leader and former Leader of the Opposition, Satheesan led the UDF to victory in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections. Several national and state-level leaders attended the oath-taking ceremony, turning the event into an important occasion for the opposition alliance. The new Chief Minister also announced his cabinet, which includes leaders from both the Congress and allied parties. The transition ends the Left Democratic Front’s decade-long rule under Pinarayi Vijayan and begins a new phase in Kerala politics. Supporters of the UDF gathered in large numbers during the ceremony, expressing optimism about the new government and its promises for governance and development. With expectations running high, Satheesan now faces the challenge of delivering on the alliance’s commitments while steering Kerala through political and economic priorities. The UDF’s return to power has set the stage for a closely watched term that could shape the state’s political direction in the coming years.