Fadnavis Confirms NDA Will Contest 2029 Elections Under PM Modi's Leadership, Dismisses Succession Speculation

Mumbai:

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has categorically stated that the NDA will fight the 2029 Lok Sabha elections with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm. When questioned about rumors suggesting he might be a potential successor to PM Modi, Fadnavis strongly dismissed such speculation. Speaking at the "Unstoppable Maharashtra" conclave hosted by NDTV Marathi Manch, he emphasized there is "no need to think of anyone else" for the position.

"Prime Minister Modi is in excellent physical condition; his work ethic surpasses that of many 40-year-olds. He dedicates more than 17 hours daily to his responsibilities and remains completely alert during all meetings," Fadnavis remarked. "As long as he maintains his physical and mental fitness, we won't look beyond him for leadership. He will continue to be our leader through 2029," he further stated.

These definitive comments from Fadnavis come as a direct response to provocative statements made by Congress leader and former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan.

During a press conference last week, Chavan had referenced global political developments, specifically mentioning the controversy surrounding the Epstein files that has caused political turbulence in the United States over recent months.

Chavan suggested that if complete details from these documents were to emerge, the repercussions could potentially reach Indian political circles and might even create circumstances favorable for a Marathi individual to become Prime Minister.

This comment gained significant attention particularly because Devendra Fadnavis is frequently cited in political discussions as a potential successor to Prime Minister Modi. Fadnavis's firm rebuttal, delivered at a prominent public forum, clearly establishes the BJP's official position on the matter.

Earlier that day, commemorating the first anniversary of his third term in office, Fadnavis expressed gratitude to Maharashtra's citizens for the mandate given to the Mahayuti alliance. "Throughout the past year, we have worked diligently to set Maharashtra firmly on the development trajectory," he stated during his visit to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.