Thiruvananthapuram, April 30:
A comprehensive post-poll opinion survey conducted by the Centre for Policy and Development Studies (CPDS) has placed Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheeshan as the most popular political leader in Kerala, signalling a notable shift in public sentiment following the 2026 Assembly elections.
The survey, based on a robust sample of 40,000 respondents across all 14 districts, was carried out immediately after polling between April 10 and April 25 using stratified multi-stage sampling. With a margin of error of ±1.8%, the findings offer a detailed snapshot of voter perception in the state.
According to the survey, Satheeshan leads the leadership popularity index with 39 per cent support, ahead of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who secured 33 per cent. Senior Congress leaders K. C. Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala follow with 28 per cent and 26 per cent respectively, indicating a strong bench strength for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF). On the other hand, Rajeev Chandrasekhar emerged as the most prominent leader from the BJP-led NDA, registering 21 per cent support.
The survey also highlights a favourable post-poll mood for the UDF, with 45 per cent of respondents indicating support for the alliance, compared to 38 per cent for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). The NDA trails with 13 per cent, while 4 per cent backed other parties.
Region-wise, Satheeshan holds a clear advantage in South and Central Kerala, while Vijayan retains a narrow lead in North Kerala. Among youth voters aged 18 to 35, Satheeshan commands a significant 44 per cent preference, well ahead of his rivals. The survey further points to strong consolidation of minority and urban voters behind the UDF leadership.
Perception metrics also favour Satheeshan in key areas such as accessibility, clean image and communication skills, though Vijayan continues to score higher in administrative experience.
Analysts say the findings reflect a growing appetite for leadership change in Kerala, with Satheeshan emerging as a central figure in that narrative. While the final electoral outcome will determine the balance of power, the CPDS survey underscores a clear shift in leadership perception, with the UDF gaining momentum in the post-poll phase.
