News Brief
Devendra Fadnavis Set To Become Maharashtra Chief Minister For Third Term As BJP Legislators Back Him
Devendra Fadnavis
Devendra Fadnavis is set to take oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister at Mumbai's Azad Maidan tomorrow (5 December), marking his third term in office.
The BJP legislature party on Wednesday (4 December) leadership confirmed Fadnavis today as their Chief Ministerial choice, putting an end to the prolonged uncertainty over the position.
Following this, his name was proposed to the newly elected BJP legislators, who unanimously approved his selection.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway at Azad Maidan in Mumbai for the grand oath ceremony, coming two weeks after the BJP-led Mahayuti's resounding victory in the state elections.
Fadnavis is expected to meet Governor CP Radhakrishnan today to formally stake his claim to form the government.
Speaking at the BJP legislators' meeting, Fadnavis said he was honoured to be named the leader of the legislature party and that he wouldn't be here without the support of the BJP's 132 MLAs.
The BJP's core committee’s decision to appoint Fadnavis ends the 11-day suspense over Maharashtra’s Chief Ministerial post.
After the Mahayuti’s sweeping win of 230 out of 288 Assembly seats, Shiv Sena leaders argued that Shinde, who led the alliance during the polls, should retain the position.
However, the BJP made it clear that it would claim the top post this time, having won 132 out of the 148 seats it contested.
Eventually, Shinde announced he would not obstruct government formation and would accept the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
Shinde lacked sufficient leverage to negotiate strongly, as the BJP requires support from only one ally to secure a majority in the Assembly, with the NCP reportedly offering its backing.
