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Kerala News Updated May 17, 2026

Keralam CM Designate VD Satheesan Meets Cardinal Cleemis, Pledges Dignity for All Communities

Keralam Chief Minister designate VD Satheesan met Major Archbishop Cardinal Cleemis to discuss community welfare ahead of his swearing-in. The Cardinal expressed confidence that Satheesan will ensure dignity for all communities under his leadership. Congress general secretary KC Venugopal affirmed party unity behind Satheesan, stating expectations for good governance from the new UDF government. Satheesan, who led the UDF to a decisive victory, will take oath as Kerala's Chief Minister on May 18.

"He will ensure dignity of everyone": Major Archbishop after meeting Keralam CM designate VD Satheesan

Thiruvananthapuram, May 17

Keralam Chief Minister designate VD Satheesan on Sunday met Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Mar Baselios Cardinal Cleemis in Thiruvananthapuram.

After the meeting, Major Archbishop told reporters that the during the meeting the discussions focused ont he welfare of the different sections of the society.

"The new CM is swearing in tomorrow, and I wished him God's blessings and support to create an atmosphere where each community feels respected... He has been great in attending to the needs of the communities in the state and I am confident he will ensure dignity for everyone... I was discussing with him that the needs of all communities should be looked after...".

Meanwhile,Congress general secretary KC Venugopal on Saturday asserted that the entire Keralam was expecting good governance from the United Democratic Front (UDF) government that would be formed under VD Satheesan's leadership. He also said that differences are set aside within the party and every Congressperson is united when top leadership makes a decision.

"There is nothing unusual in it. This was a usual meeting. VD Satheesan is going to be the Chief Minister of Kerala. The party's high command made a decision. Whatever the party high command decides, we are all bound to agree with that. VD Satheesan is going to be sworn in the day after tomorrow. Entire Kerala is expecting good governance from the UDF Govt under the leadership of VD Satheesan," he told reporters

Satheesan was announced as the leader of the Congress-led alliance on May 14 and is scheduled to take oath as Kerala's Chief Minister on May 18.The Congress-led UDF secured a decisive mandate in the 140-member Keralam Assembly, winning 102 seats and ending the Left Democratic Front (LDF)'s decade-long rule in the state.

Satheesan served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Keralam Legislative Assembly since 2021 and emerged as one of the prominent faces of the UDF campaign against the outgoing Left government.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

Finally, a leader who understands the importance of reaching out to all sections of society. The previous government had become tone-deaf to community concerns. Let's see if Satheesan can actually deliver on the promise of decentralized development.

Vikram M

Good to see the Major Archbishop's supportive words. Kerala needs healing after the intense polarization of the last few years. However, one meeting doesn't guarantee inclusive governance. Satheesan must walk the talk on minority rights and development equally.

Sarah B

As someone who follows Indian politics from abroad, it's refreshing to see such emphasis on community harmony. Hope this government brings stability and growth to Kerala without the divisive rhetoric.

Rohit P

All this talk of dignity is fine, but will Satheesan address the chronic unemployment and high cost of living? The church leaders should also speak about these basic issues. Let's see action, not just photo ops.

Kavya N

The way the UDF has come together is encouraging. KC Venugopal's statement shows discipline. But the real challenge starts now - governing a state with high expectations. Hope Satheesan proves worthy. Congratulations sir! 🌺

Michael C

The interfaith outreach is a hallmark of great leadership. Kerala's social fabric is complex, and this gesture signals respect

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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