In a strategic move ahead of the 2024 general elections, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is all set to take over as the new president of the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)). This marks the second time Kumar will assume the role, the first being in 2016 when he replaced Sharad Yadav.
The decision was made during the party’s meeting in the national capital, where Kumar’s confidant Lalan Singh, who had previously denied reports of a leadership change, proposed Kumar’s name for the top position. Singh conveyed to Kumar his intention to hand over the reins of the party due to his preoccupation with election responsibilities.
The move came amidst enthusiastic slogans from party leaders endorsing Kumar as the ideal candidate for the position of India’s Prime Minister: “Desh ka pradhan mantri kaisa ho, Nitish Kumar jaisa ho” (What should be the Prime Minister of the country? Someone like Nitish Kumar).
This development follows reports of dissatisfaction within the party, with Kumar allegedly unhappy about Singh’s perceived lack of effective coordination with the INDIA bloc regarding a more significant role for Kumar in the alliance.
JD(U) state president Umesh Kushwaha emphasized that the decision for Kumar to lead the party again was taken in the larger interest of both the party and the nation. “It was decided by all,” he stated.
Earlier this year, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had already projected Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge as the prime ministerial face of the opposition grouping.
Despite speculation about Singh stepping down, he downplayed any internal conflicts, asserting, “Nitish Kumar is the leader of our party. JD(U) is united, and it will remain the same. I am not going to resign,” on Thursday.
Sources within the party, as reported by news agency PTI, revealed that key leaders were of the opinion that Kumar should assume leadership during this crucial time leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Criticism of Singh’s leadership style was also noted in recent interactions with Kumar.
With the stage set for Nitish Kumar to once again steer the JD(U), all eyes are on the national executive meeting for the official confirmation of his presidency.