Eknath Shinde (Shiv Sena - Shinde Faction)
Currently, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde rose to prominence after splitting from Uddhav Thackeray's faction in 2022. Leading a rebellion within Shiv Sena, Shinde allied with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and became the CM in a dramatic political shift. His ability to consolidate power and appeal to the traditional Shiv Sena voter base makes him a strong contender for the CM post in future elections.
Devendra Fadnavis (BJP)
Devendra Fadnavis remains a key player in Maharashtra politics and a frontrunner for the CM position. A former Chief Minister (2014–2019) and current Deputy Chief Minister, Fadnavis is the BJP’s most visible face in the state. Known for his administrative capabilities and strong political network, Fadnavis has successfully navigated Maharashtra's political landscape despite setbacks in 2019. His experience and stature in the BJP make him a natural candidate for the top post, should the party secure enough seats in the next election.
Ajit Pawar (NCP - Ajit Faction)
Ajit Pawar, a veteran of Maharashtra politics and a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), is considered a strong contender for the Chief Minister's chair. He recently remarked that he would have brought the entire NCP with him if the BJP and Shiv Sena had offered him the CM's post. His unexpected alliance with the BJP and Eknath Shinde in 2023 bolstered his political influence, securing him the role of Deputy Chief Minister. Known for his pragmatic approach and extensive political connections, Pawar has demonstrated his ability to navigate the state’s complex political landscape. His long-standing ambition to become CM, coupled with his experience, positions him as a formidable candidate.
Balasaheb Thorat (Congress)
Balasaheb Thorat, a senior leader of the Congress party in Maharashtra, is a respected figure across the political spectrum. A former Minister of Revenue and a key strategist for Congress, Thorat has maintained a stable political career. While Congress’s influence in Maharashtra has diminished in recent years, Thorat’s experience and clean image could revitalise the party’s standing, especially if political alliances shift in their favour. Reports suggest that his supporters are promoting him as a potential candidate for the Chief Minister's post.
Nana Patole (Congress)
Nana Patole, the President of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, has emerged as a prominent voice within the Congress party. His strong grassroots connections and focus on agrarian issues resonate well with rural voters. Patole is regarded as a rising star and a potential candidate for the Chief Minister’s post, particularly if Congress aligns with other opposition parties or experiences a resurgence in the state. Recently, reports indicated that the Nagpur unit of the Congress party proposed Patole as their candidate for the CM position.
Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena (UBT) - Uddhav Thackeray Faction)
As the leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), Uddhav Thackeray continues to be a major force in Maharashtra’s political landscape. Following a turbulent tenure as Chief Minister from 2019 to 2022, Thackeray has been focused on rebuilding his party after the split with Eknath Shinde. His leadership still commands strong support among Shiv Sena loyalists, especially in Mumbai and coastal Maharashtra. Thackeray remains a formidable candidate for the Chief Minister’s position once again.
Raj Thackeray (MNS)
Raj Thackeray, the charismatic leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), has often been regarded as a potential Chief Minister. Despite the MNS's diminished influence in recent years, Thackeray's oratory skills, appeal to Marathi pride, and ties to the Thackeray legacy provide him with a distinctive position in Maharashtra politics. His supporters have long been advocating for his candidacy for the Chief Minister's post.
Pankaja Munde (BJP)
Pankaja Munde, daughter of the late BJP stalwart Gopinath Munde, is a prominent leader within the BJP in Maharashtra. A former cabinet minister, she has considerable support in the rural heartland, particularly among the OBC (Other Backward Classes) communities. Munde has previously stated that her supporters aspire to see her become the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Her potential as a future CM candidate remains strong, especially if the BJP aims to broaden its appeal among rural voters.
Supriya Sule (NCP - Sharad Pawar Faction)
Supriya Sule, daughter of NCP founder Sharad Pawar, is a seasoned parliamentarian and a respected leader within her party. Known for her articulate advocacy on social and economic issues, Sule has maintained a strong national presence while remaining deeply rooted in Maharashtra politics. Although her cousin Ajit Pawar currently holds a more dominant position in state politics, Supriya Sule’s profile as a potential Chief Minister candidate should not be underestimated, particularly if the NCP aims to present a new leadership style. Reports indicate that her supporters have been actively proposing her name for the chief ministerial position.
Vinod Tawde (BJP)
Vinod Tawde is a senior BJP leader with a long-standing presence in Maharashtra politics. A former state minister, Tawde has maintained a low profile in recent years but remains an influential figure within the party. Reports indicate that some Maharashtra BJP leaders have conspicuously sidelined Tawde, viewing him as a contender for the Chief Minister’s post. His organisational skills and experience in various administrative roles position him as a dark horse candidate for the CM role, especially if the BJP leadership seeks a compromise candidate to unite different factions within the party.
ADVERTISEMENT
