Patna: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad on Monday filed his nomination for the post of national president at the party office in Patna, setting the stage for yet another unopposed term at the helm of the party he founded nearly three decades ago.
The nomination filing was a symbolic moment for the RJD, as Lalu—who has already served 12 terms as national president—is widely expected to be re-elected without contest. The formal announcement is scheduled for July 5.
Lalu’s younger son and Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, was present along with other senior leaders during the filing. Speaking to reporters, Tejashwi said, “Lalu ji has filed his nomination for the post of national president. There is a wave of happiness among all workers. We are hopeful that we will win under his leadership.”
The development comes as the party nears the end of its internal organisational elections. In a recent move seen as a nod to social representation, RJD appointed Mangani Lal Mandal—an extremely backward caste leader—as its Bihar state president, replacing veteran leader Jagadanand Singh, who had been disengaged from party affairs for some time.
Lalu, who remains a towering figure in Bihar politics despite health issues and legal challenges, continues to hold sway within the party, with leaders and cadres alike expressing confidence in his leadership as they prepare for the 2025 state elections.
