Devendra Fadnavis, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and CM-designate for Maharashtra, is set to take the oath of office on December 5, 2024. In a statement ahead of his swearing-in ceremony, Fadnavis expressed his desire for outgoing Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde to continue being part of the Mahayuti (Grand Alliance) government.
Fadnavis Appeals for Unity
Speaking to reporters, Fadnavis emphasised the importance of Shinde’s role in the coalition and highlighted the camaraderie built over the last two-and-a-half years of governance.
“It is the wish of Shiv Sena and Mahayuti members of the legislative assembly (MLA) that Shinde remains part of the government. This [CM] post is just a technical term among us three—myself, Shinde, and Ajit Pawar. We will work together in taking all decisions and take Maharashtra to new heights,” said Fadnavis.
The CM-designate’s comments come after Shinde previously stated that his party would not obstruct the BJP’s choice of Chief Minister. However, reports suggest that Shinde distanced himself from political developments for a period, prompting speculation about his position in the government.
Leadership and Gratitude
Fadnavis thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for entrusting him with the leadership role, as well as BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for their support.
“I am grateful that the leadership has chosen a worker like me to serve Maharashtra. I assure the people of the state of a good government that works for progress and prosperity,” he said.
He also extended his gratitude to Union Ministers Ramdas Athawale, Rajnath Singh, and Nitin Gadkari for their backing and expressed appreciation to the people of Maharashtra for their continued trust in the BJP-led alliance.
Ajit Pawar to be Deputy CM
Fadnavis confirmed that Ajit Pawar, a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), would take oath as the Deputy Chief Minister alongside him. Addressing the roles of party leaders in the alliance, Fadnavis stated that Chandrashekhar Bawankule (BJP) and Sunil Tatkare (NCP) would handle party-related activities.
Uncertainty Over Cabinet and Shinde’s Role
While Fadnavis will lead the government and Ajit Pawar will be his deputy, the composition of the Cabinet is yet to be finalised. Evening meetings are planned to decide the names of other ministers who will take oath. Shinde’s future role in the government also remains undecided.
A Shared Vision for Maharashtra
The Mahayuti government, which comprises the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP factions, aims to maintain a united front as it works toward delivering on its promises. Fadnavis reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to taking Maharashtra to new heights under the collective leadership of its key players.
As the state prepares for a leadership transition, all eyes will be on the swearing-in ceremony tomorrow, marking a new chapter in Maharashtra’s political landscape.
