Mumbai, December 4, 2024: Ajit Pawar, a key figure in Maharashtra politics, has fueled speculation about his role in the state government. While rumors suggest he might take the oath as deputy chief minister under Devendra Fadnavis, recent statements indicate Pawar’s preference for Fadnavis to lead as Chief Minister. This development comes as the Mahayuti alliance, consisting of the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), deliberates on leadership roles following its significant victory in the state elections.
Discussions within the alliance are ongoing, with senior leaders from all three parties expected to convene for a joint meeting to finalize their decisions. Ajit Pawar’s declaration of support for Fadnavis has added a strategic dimension to the political scenario, reflecting his faction’s attempts to solidify influence within the coalition. Observers view this as a calculated move to ensure his group’s prominence in the state’s power dynamics.
The alliance’s leadership negotiations are further complicated by the current Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s position and his faction’s expectations within the Mahayuti framework. Balancing these internal dynamics while ensuring smooth governance remains a critical challenge for the coalition leaders.
An official announcement on leadership roles is awaited, with decisions likely to shape the state’s political landscape. As the alliance moves closer to forming its government, all eyes are on key figures like Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis, whose roles will define Maharashtra’s future political direction.