The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has officially announced a roster of nine candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections. Party chief Raj Thackeray revealed these names during his extensive tour across Maharashtra, marking a decisive step in the MNS’s electoral strategy.
Abstains from coalition:
During his announcement, Thackeray emphasized the MNS’s commitment to contesting the elections independently, without forming any alliances. This strategy represents a significant shift from the party’s past approach, where collaboration with other political entities was commonplace. Thackeray’s insistence on independence underscores the MNS’s determination to carve out a distinct identity in Maharashtra’s political landscape. This move aims to resonate with voters who are increasingly wary of coalition politics and are seeking more straightforward, principled representation.
Thackeray’s political history has seen him support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s candidacy for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and actively campaign for candidates within the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition. After exiting Shiv Sena in 2006, Thackeray created MNS. He initially supported Modi but later criticised the NDA government for its unfulfilled promises.
Candidates in the battlefield:
1. Bala Nandgaonkar – Shivadi
2. Dilip Bapu Dhotre – Pandharpur
3. Santosh Bhau Nagargoje – Latur Rural
4. Bandu Bhau Kute – Hingoli
5. Rajubhau Umberkar – Voice
6. Sachin Dada Bhoyar – Rajura
7. Mandeep Bhau Rode – Chandrapur City
8. Rajudada Patil – Kalyan Rural (the only sitting MLA declared)
9. Avinash Jadhav – Thane City
Thackeray’s tour across Maharashtra has been instrumental in re-establishing connections with the electorate. His engagements have not only served as platforms for announcing candidates but have also provided opportunities to listen to the concerns of citizens. MNS is set to take centre stage in its battle in the upcoming elections. The party will also look to improve on its performances. They won one seat in each of 2014 and 2019 elections.
In summary, the MNS’s announcement of its candidates and the commitment to an independent campaign reflect a strategic repositioning in Maharashtra’s political landscape. The Maharashtra Assembly elections are set to take place on 20th November, 2024 and counting of votes are scheduled for November 23.
