A delay in officially naming Tejashwi reflects deep political calculations rather than indecision. Congress seems to be doing some last-minute bargaining on seat-sharing. However, a prolonged delay also carries political risks, say observers
As Bihar heads toward the high-stakes 2025 assembly elections, the question dominating political discourse is when RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav will be the officially declared Chief Ministerial face of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance). While the atmosphere suggests overwhelming support within the alliance for his leadership, a formal announcement remains elusive — and somewhat contentious.
Tejashwi, the leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and former Deputy CM of Bihar, has emerged as the clear frontrunner within the opposition camp. Leaders of left parties like CPI-ML have already thrown their weight behind him, many within the RJD also speak with certainty. Adding to this momentum, some reports declaring that Tejashwi has officially been named the CM candidate by the Mahagathbandhan.
According to a report, the alliance has not only finalised seat-sharing arrangements but also confirmed Tejashwi’s leadership role in the campaign, however, others present a more nuanced status. Senior Congress leaders have openly countered the claim of a finalised decision, insisting that announcement of a CM face must come from collective consensus among all alliance partners, thus reflecting issues regarding seat-sharing within the Mahagathbandhan.
Notably Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar, while trying to present a united front, recently said there was “no confusion or dispute” over Tejashwi’s leadership. Yet his carefully worded support fell short of an outright declaration, again hinting at behind-the-scenes disagreements or at least ongoing negotiations.
Tejashwi himself has kept a diplomatic tone. Speaking to reporters, he said the CM face will be revealed at the “right time”, emphasising that the people of Bihar want change and that the Mahagathbandhan will respond accordingly. For now, Tejashwi Yadav remains the de facto face of the opposition in Bihar — heavily favoured, widely supported within key alliance factions, but not yet officially declared as the Chief Ministerial candidate by the full Mahagathbandhan.
Whether that declaration is just a formality or a sticking point that could reshape alliance dynamics remains to be seen. According to analysts, the delay in officially naming Tejashwi reflects deep political calculations rather than indecision. Despite its weak ground presence in Bihar, Congress wants to retain bargaining power on seat-sharing and leadership decisions. Declaring Tejashwi too early could cement RJD’s dominance, sidelining Congress further.
The alliance also fears repeating its 2020 mistake, where Tejashwi led the campaign but the Mahagathbandhan fell short. Leaders worry a premature CM face may polarise voters or lead to complacency. Strategically, the alliance may be waiting for the NDA’s moves, especially on whether Nitish Kumar will run again.
