The debate over the chief ministerial face for the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra has intensified within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance. NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar has objected to the idea of projecting one particular individual, while Shiv Sena (UBT) insists that party chief Uddhav Thackeray should be announced as the next CM face.
Pawar emphasized, “Our alliance is our collective face. One individual cannot become our chief ministerial face. Collective leadership is our formula. All our three alliance partners will take a decision in this regard.”
Furthermore, Pawar called for unity against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging all anti-Modi parties to join the MVA. He stated, “All those opposed to Modi should become part of the MVA. Whatever decision has to be taken regarding the chief ministerial face will be taken through discussion and after taking everyone into confidence.”
During the recent Lok Sabha elections, parties like PWP, AAP, and the Communist parties supported the MVA. Pawar emphasized the importance of including these parties in the alliance. The decision regarding the chief ministerial face will be made collectively.
Importance of a CM face: Sanjay Raut
Meanwhile, Sanjay Raut highlighted the significance of having a frontrunner for elections. He pointed to the INDIA bloc’s performance and stressed the need for a clear leader for voters to rally behind.
Raut cited examples of successful election campaigns led by leaders like Indira Gandhi and Narendra Modi, underscoring the importance of a recognizable face for voters. He expressed confidence in the MVA’s unity and determination to win a significant number of Assembly seats.
Raut warned against going into the elections without a chief ministerial face, emphasizing the popularity of Uddhav Thackeray and the positive response he received during the Covid-19 pandemic. He declared that a faceless alliance would jeopardize the MVA’s chances of winning the election.
