Patna: The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has put an end to speculation over a possible leadership change, with senior leader and principal general secretary Abdul Bari Siddiqui confirming on Sunday that party supremo Lalu Prasad will continue as the national president.
Speaking to reporters, Siddiqui said that there is unanimous support within the party for Lalu’s leadership. “Every leader, big or small, wants Lalu ji to remain in the top position. There is no ambiguity in the party about his role,” he stated, adding that Lalu will file his nomination for the post of national president on Monday.
Dismissing concerns about the RJD chief’s declining health, Siddiqui maintained that despite limited public appearances, Lalu continues to guide the party’s decisions and strategy. “There are health reasons, but that does not matter. Lalu ji is still deciding the direction and strategy of the party,” he added.
On being asked about the role of veteran leader Jagdanand Singh at the national level, Siddiqui declined to offer specifics. “This is an internal matter of the party. Jagdanand ji remains a close associate in our collective journey. The party will decide what role he will play,” he said.
With this clarification, the RJD appears set to retain its long-standing leadership ahead of organisational elections. Sources indicate that Lalu is likely to be re-elected unopposed.
