Published Apr 16, 2026 | 2:53 PM ⚊ Updated Apr 16, 2026 | 3:10 PM
K Sudhakaran and KC Venugopal. (Facebook)
Synopsis: Highlighting his organisational strength, Sudhakaran noted that Venugopal’s role in the last Assembly elections demonstrated how indispensable his presence is in Kerala, despite his responsibilities at the national level as a close confidant of Rahul Gandhi.
AICC general secretary KC Venugopal on Thursday, 16 April, responded to senior leader K Sudhakaran’s remarks on the party’s chief ministerial candidate, saying leaders are free to express their views but should avoid airing such matters publicly.
He emphasised that the chief minister post should not become a subject of public debate and must be decided internally after the election results on 4 May.
Speaking in New Delhi, Venugopal steered attention to national issues, particularly delimitation, calling it a matter that affects the core of India’s democracy.
He expressed disinterest in discussing internal Congress matters at a time when more serious national concerns are at stake. He reiterated that the party has an established system and leadership structure, where decisions are taken collectively and maintained that leaders remain calm and united.
Responding to criticism, Venugopal said he has long been labelled a zero by sections of the media but is unfazed, adding that such opinions do not matter and people should wait for the election outcome.
He also dismissed earlier claims of internal turmoil in the Kerala Congress unit before the polls, noting that neither candidate selection nor other processes led to any disruption.
KPCC president Sunny Joseph echoed a similar stand, urging senior leaders to refrain from speculating about the chief minister candidate.
He said the party follows a clear process to choose its chief minister if it comes to power, with the high command taking the final call after results are declared.
He also criticised what he described as fake social media campaigns that have fuelled unnecessary debate over the issue. He said leaders should share their opinions through proper internal forums.
Earlier, Sudhakaran added a fresh twist to the debate by openly backing Venugopal as the party’s chief ministerial face.
In a Facebook post that has quickly drawn attention within political circles, Sudhakaran indicated that Venugopal should lead the state once UDF won the elections.
The statement is significant at a time when internal discussions within the party over a potential chief ministerial candidate remain unresolved.
Sudhakaran revealed that Venugopal has expressed a desire to return to active politics in Kerala and take up a leadership role in the state.
Highlighting his organisational strength, Sudhakaran noted that Venugopal’s role in the last Assembly elections demonstrated how indispensable his presence is in Kerala, despite his responsibilities at the national level as a close confidant of Rahul Gandhi.
Also Read: KC Venugopal eyeing Kerala CM chair?
According to Sudhakaran, Venugopal was instrumental in energising grassroots workers and instilling confidence among candidates during the previous polls.
He added that party workers strongly believe Venugopal can lead Kerala by following in the footsteps of veteran leaders like K. Karunakaran, A. K. Antony and Oommen Chandy.
“The greatness of a leader lies not in positions but in the tradition of work. Only K.C., who has risen from the grassroots, can truly understand the minds of the workers,” Sudhakaran said in his post.
He also praised Venugopal’s composure during crises and his humility in dealing with party cadres, describing his strength as being “a companion to the workers rather than just a leader.”
Concluding his note, Sudhakaran expressed hope that Venugopal would not only continue to strengthen the national leadership but also inspire the people and party workers in Kerala, offering direction for a future administration.
Sudhakaran’s endorsement is expected to further intensify internal discussions within the Congress in Kerala, where multiple leaders are seen as contenders for the top post if the party returns to power.
