The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) returned to power in Kerala after 10 years, securing a decisive victory with 102 seats in the 2026 Assembly election and defying most exit poll predictions.
The Congress alone won 63 seats, marking its best-ever performance in the state.
The alliance, which had been reduced to 41 seats in the previous election, registered sweeping gains across the state, establishing dominance from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram.
The UDF won every seat in Malappuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Wayanad, and Idukki districts. In Pathanamthitta, Kasaragod, and Kozhikode, the front lost only one seat each.
The coalition also recorded major gains in Palakkad, Alappuzha, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Among UDF allies, the Indian Union Muslim League and Kerala Congress emerged with strong performances. Kerala Congress won seven of the eight seats it contested, strengthening its position within the coalition.
The UDF campaign focused heavily on anti-incumbency sentiment against the ruling government. Key campaign issues included Sabarimala and allegations of a CPM-SDPI-BJP nexus. The alliance also promoted its “Indira Guarantee” promises, which were seen as influential among women voters.
Following the victory, attention has shifted to the selection of the next Chief Minister. UDF chairman and Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan is being viewed as a leading contender after consistently predicting that the alliance would cross 100 seats.
However, supporters of senior Congress leaders Ramesh Chennithala and AICC general secretary K C Venugopal have also pushed their names for the top post.
Satheesan said after the results that he would not stake a claim to the position and that the party would follow its usual process to select the Chief Minister.
Venugopal’s proximity to the Congress high command, including Rahul Gandhi, and his influence within the party are considered important factors. However, critics within the party have pointed out that Venugopal is not currently an MLA, meaning his appointment could trigger bypolls.
AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala Deepa Dasmunsi is expected to begin consultations with newly elected Congress legislators soon.
The Congress leadership may also face pressure from alliance partners seeking greater cabinet representation following the coalition’s strong electoral performance.