Celebrations erupt in Kozhikode following naming of Chief Minister-designate

Jubilant scenes unfolded across Kozhikode district on Thursday (May 14, 2026) as Congress and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) workers held mass celebrations soon after the announcement of V.D. Satheesan as the leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP).

On S.M. Street, party workers distributed sweets to the public and organised demonstrations marking the announcement. The District Congress Committee (DCC) organised a procession in the city congratulating Mr. Satheesan and highlighting his role in the party’s electoral performance in the Assembly polls.

A large turnout of youngsters was visible during the urban and rural celebrations, expressing solidarity with the new Chief Minister-designate. Some local traders aligned with the Congress also joined the festivities, offering free sweets to the public.

Congress and IUML supporters on social media, who had been campaigning in favour of Mr. Satheesan’s candidature, also expressed joy over the high command’s decision by circulating victory reels and posters. In several villages across Kozhikode, grama panchayat presidents associated with the United Democratic Front led parallel celebrations.

DCC leaders said the conclusion of the leadership selection process had given renewed momentum to the “Team UDF” narrative. They also rejected allegations that a section of leaders had stayed away from the public celebrations.

A senior Congress leader said the high command’s decision had been accepted by all, though there were some differences of opinion during the selection process. He pointed out that such differences of opinion were raised by exercising the democratic freedom offered within the party.