Shivakumar Extends Support to Kerala's New CM Satheesan Amid Political Shifts

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar congratulated V D Satheesan on being selected as Kerala's new Chief Minister, noting his victory in a closely contested race among senior Congress officials. The Congress-led UDF secured a sweeping victory in the April 9 assembly elections, capturing 103 out of 140 seats.

During a press briefing, Shivakumar acknowledged the capabilities of the other candidates, including AICC General Secretary (Organisation) K C Venugopal and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala, but affirmed the party's decision in favor of Satheesan. Shivakumar expressed confidence in the Congress party's ability to unify various segments of society under Satheesan's leadership.

Shivakumar also extended his support to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, who assumed office on May 10. Despite falling short of a majority, Vijay's government won the trust vote with Congress and several other parties' backing. Shivakumar shared insights from his administrative experiences with Vijay to aid his governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)