‘Devendra Fadnavis will be chosen as chief minister,’ says ally Ramdas Athawale

Mumbai:

Union Minister and Republican Party of India-Athawale (RPI-A) leader Ramdas Athawale on Monday claimed that Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is set to become the next chief minister of the state, along with Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit. Pawar extends his support.

After meeting Mr. Fadnavis at his residence, Mr. Athawale said the decision on the chief minister’s post would be finalized in the next two to three days. He also revealed that the swearing-in ceremony would follow soon and assured that the RPI-A would get a place in the Cabinet.

“During my discussion with Fadnavis, I was informed that the formation of the Cabinet would be decided shortly and the oath-taking ceremony would take place in the next two to three days. I was assured that the RPI- A would also be given a ministry in the Cabinet,” Mr. Athawale told IANS.

The Union Minister expressed confidence in Mr. Fadnavis’s leadership, saying, “Devendra Fadnavis will be chosen as the next Chief Minister.” The BJP got 132 seats. Ajit Pawar also gave 41 seats to Devendra Fadnavis. Discussions with Eknath Shinde are ongoing. still in progress.”

Mr. Athawale also suggested that Eknath Shinde, who led Shiv Sena to win 58 seats, should be given a central position, while Shiv Sena should get a deputy chief minister’s seat.

“Shinde’s contribution is significant, with 57 seats and notable development work over the last two and a half years. We respect his efforts,” he added.

In the recent Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP emerged as the single largest party, securing 132 seats, followed by Shinde-led Shiv Sena with 57 and Ajit Pawar-led NCP with 41. The Mahayuti alliance collectively won a record 230 seats. the 288 seats, marking a historic victory.

The BJP broke its previous records of 105 seats in 2019 and 122 in 2014, strengthening its claim to the chief minister’s post. Mr Fadnavis remains the frontrunner, with broad support from the alliance.

However, Mr. Fadnavis said, “Leaders of the three parties will meet to discuss and decide on the post of chief minister. This result is incredible and unprecedented. People voted for us wholeheartedly and we are grateful for their trust.”

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