Kerala Congress Pushes for Two Ministers in UDF Cabinet After 2026 Win

Riding high on its 2026 election performance, the Kerala Congress under P.J. Joseph has entered the post-poll negotiation table with firm demands for cabinet representation. The party has staked claim for two ministerial berths and the post of Chief Whip in the incoming United Democratic Front Cabinet. After nearly a decade on the margins of power since 2016, the Kerala Congress staged a decisive return, contesting eight seats and securing seven. Meeting at the party chairman’s residence in Thodupuzha the other day, the newly elected legislators decided that the party would press for two key ministerial portfolios. Apu John Joseph, who won from Thodupuzha, was chosen party whip, Mons Joseph was elected parliamentary party leader, while Thomas Unniyadan of Irinjalakuda was named deputy leader. Speaking before leaving for Thiruvananthapuram, Joseph said the issue of Cabinet representation would be resolved through discussions within the alliance. With the Indian Union Muslim League expected to secure five ministerial berths, Kerala Congress leaders insist that their party, with its strong base among the Christian community, was entitled to at least two. “If the League gets five posts, the Kerala Congress should get two. We represent a significant section of the Christian community, and the Church extended strong support to the UDF in this election,” a senior leader noted. The demand is also rooted in precedent, as in 2021 the party contested 10 seats but ceded Idukki and Ettumanur this time at the Congress’ request.

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