Rahul Gandhi's Nod to New KPCC Leadership: A Transformational Shift Ahead of 2026 Elections

Rahul Gandhi congratulated MLA Sunny Joseph, the new KPCC president, as Congress prepares for the 2026 Kerala elections, embracing a leadership overhaul. Despite past support for K. Sudhakaran, changes reflect strategic shifts, with MLA P.C. Vishnunath and others now in pivotal roles within the state unit.

In a decisive leadership overhaul ahead of the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, Congress has appointed Peravoor MLA Sunny Joseph as the new president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC). This move replaces the erstwhile Kannur Lok Sabha MP, K. Sudhakaran. The reshuffle in the state unit was sanctioned by the Congress high command, indicating a fresh strategic direction for the party as it prepares for the upcoming electoral battle.

A complete revamp at the top of the state organization includes Adoor Prakash taking over as UDF convener from M M Hassan. MLA P.C. Vishnunath, A P Anil Kumar, and MP Shafi Parambil have been appointed as working presidents of KPCC, tasked with steering the party's strategies alongside Joseph. These changes mark significant shifts in the Congress's approach to enhance its influence and readiness in Kerala.

In prior months, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor had expressed his support for Sudhakaran to remain in his role, citing the party's successes in recent by-elections under his guidance. Tharoor emphasized that party unity was paramount and believed that continuity in leadership was essential; however, the new appointments appear to signify a strategic reorientation.

(With inputs from agencies.)