In this political analysis, Sunitha Devadas breaks down the reasons behind V.D. Satheesan’s leadership in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, where the UDF secured a significant victory with over 100 seats. She traces the shift in political momentum back to a specific 2025 moment involving Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Vellappally Natesan, which Satheesan effectively leveraged to build a winning narrative. While Satheesan is portrayed as a sharp, self-centered, and strategic “professional politician” who knows how to win over young voters and manage digital spaces like Instagram, there is a visible internal divide within the Congress party. Despite Satheesan’s massive public support—evidenced by street protests in his favor—a majority of newly elected MLAs allegedly favor K.C. Venugopal, raising questions about who will ultimately claim the Chief Minister’s post. The analysis highlights Satheesan’s ability to mirror and counter Pinarayi Vijayan’s tactics, his strategic alliances, and the role of high-profile endorsements in shaping the election outcome, while leaving the viewer to ponder whether public popularity or party-room backing should determine the state’s next leader.