The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has asserted its historical right to the deputy chief minister position in Kerala's United Democratic Front (UDF) government but has opted not to formally demand it. Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal, secretary of the IUML's national committee, emphasized that the party has previously held the position with leaders CH Mohammed Koya and K Avukader Kutty Naha serving as deputy chief ministers. Following the recent state elections, where voters elected a new government, the IUML and Congress are optimistic about winning over 100 seats in the 140-seat assembly. Despite its claims, seasoned IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty stated the party will not exert pressure on the Congress, recalling that the IUML declined the deputy chief minister post when offered by Oommen Chandy between 2011 and 2016. The IUML's cautious approach aims to avoid reinforcing narratives that it dominates the UDF coalition, which could disrupt the delicate social and religious dynamics in Kerala and negatively impact the UDF's political prospects.