Who is leading the race for Kerala's next Chief Minister?

As the Congress-led UDF maintains a strong lead in Kerala as counting progresses, the question of the next Chief Minister remains open. V. D. Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala, and K. C. Venugopal are seen as leading contenders. The Congress high command is expected to take the final decision once results are confirmed, following internal consultations and party procedures.