Responding to John Brittas' remark calling Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi "guest leaders," former Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the Gandhis remain hugely popular in the state, noting that Rahul won Wayanad with one of the highest margins. Speaking at NDTV Power Play Keralam, he added that the Congress CEC has final authority on candidate selection, with 39 seats already discussed and announcements expected later.