CWC Urges Rahul Gandhi to Lead Opposition
On Saturday, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) members unanimously urged Rahul Gandhi to take on the role of Leader of Opposition (LOP) in the Lok Sabha. This significant request came following the party’s improved performance in the recent general elections. At a press conference after the extended CWC meeting, party general secretary KC Venugopal announced that the members had collectively requested Gandhi to assume the LOP position.
Acknowledging Party Leaders and Their Efforts
The CWC adopted two resolutions during the meeting, one of which hailed the contributions of Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Their roles were recognized as pivotal to the party’s performance in the Lok Sabha polls. Additionally, the CWC credited Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatras for significantly boosting the party’s performance in the elections.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
This will mark the first time since its ouster from power in 2014 that the Congress will get the post of Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. The party had previously failed to secure this position in 2014 and 2019 due to not meeting the requisite 10% of total seats in the house. Venugopal expressed that the party’s leaders and workers are highly motivated, and asserted that the CWC sentiment indicates the beginning of the Congress’ revival.
Electoral Verdict and Implications
The CWC resolution also stated that the electoral verdict was not just a political loss but also a personal and moral defeat for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had sought a mandate in his name. With the Congress emerging as the second-largest party in the Lok Sabha, improving its tally to 99 seats from 52 in the 2019 elections, the party is poised to play a crucial role in the opposition.