The new LDF government under Pinarayi Vijayan will finally take the oath of office on May 20, when Governor Arif Mohammed Khan will read out the oath, but what's yet to emerge is the composition of the cabinet.

 The CPM-CPI bilateral talks held last week came to an understanding to this effect, subject to the Covid situation in the state at the time. The swearing-in has been delayed in view of the latest Covid restrictions, especially with lockdown being announced in the state from May 8 to 16.

The swearing-in has been fixed to be held outdoors at the Central Stadium, a stone's throw from the seat of power of the State Secretariat and with Covid protocols in force, the maximum number of people who will be allowed to grace the occasion is 750.

With a week more left for the event, the last-minute talks are going on and the only person who is keeping all the cards close to his chest is Vijayan, as he has now become the last word in the LDF, as he created history by becoming the first to retain power.

Vijayan is still undecided on the total number, as according to the rules including the CM's post he can have a maximum of 21 ministers. However in 2016 to set a mark of austerity, he decided to have 20, but this time he is in a quandary as in the 140 member assembly the LDF has won 99 seats.

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