Uddhav Thackeray, chief of Shiv Sena (UBT), said he is ready to resign from his leadership position if party members lose confidence in him.
This offer comes as the party faces a potential internal crisis that could weaken its standing in the legislature. The stability of the faction is currently under threat due to reported dissent among its high-ranking members.
Thackeray made the announcement during a gathering in Mumbai to mark the 60th [1] foundation day of Shiv Sena. He said that he is prepared to hand over leadership to any party worker if the membership no longer supports his tenure.
"I am ready to pick anyone to lead the party," Thackeray said [3].
The offer follows reports of a rebellion within the party ranks. Several members of parliament are reportedly considering defecting to the rival faction led by Eknath Shinde. Some reports indicate that as many as six [2] MPs may be considering this move.
Despite the instability, Thackeray maintained that his personal commitment to the party remains firm. He addressed the crowd in Mumbai, emphasizing his resolve to continue the party's mission regardless of the internal turmoil.
"I have not lost my resolve," Thackeray said [1].
Thackeray also said he was "ready to quit" [2] if it served the interests of the organization. The public nature of the offer is seen as an attempt to quell the rebellion by demonstrating transparency, and a willingness to prioritize party unity over personal power.
“"I am ready to pick anyone to lead the party."”
This move by Thackeray is a strategic attempt to neutralize a growing rebellion by preempting calls for his removal. By offering to step down, he places the burden of leadership transition on the dissidents while framing himself as a selfless leader. However, if the reported defection of six MPs occurs, it would represent a significant blow to the Shiv Sena (UBT) power base and potentially shift the political balance in Maharashtra.
