Prashant Kishor
Political strategist Prashant Kishor has suggested that Rahul Gandhi should contemplate stepping back if the Congress fails to achieve its desired results in the Lok Sabha polls. Speaking to PTI editors, Kishor emphasized that despite Mr. Gandhi’s decade-long tenure, he hasn’t been able to relinquish control or allow someone else to lead the Congress, despite the lack of substantial progress.
Kishor highlighted the need for leaders to acknowledge their shortcomings and seek assistance in addressing them. He compared Gandhi’s situation to Sonia Gandhi’s decision to step aside after Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination, allowing P V Narasimha Rao to assume leadership in 1991.
Critically, Kishor pointed out Gandhi’s reluctance to recognize his need for support, stating that Gandhi believes he can handle everything independently, which Kishor deems unrealistic. Despite Gandhi’s previous announcement to step down after the 2019 electoral defeat, Kishor noted that he hasn’t followed through, maintaining a tight grip on the party’s decision-making process.
Kishor also highlighted the internal dynamics within the Congress, with some leaders feeling sidelined while others feel Gandhi is indecisive. He stressed that the interests of the Congress and its supporters should supersede any individual, urging Gandhi not to insist on leading the party despite repeated setbacks.
Additionally, Kishor challenged Gandhi’s assertion that external factors like compromised institutions contribute solely to the party’s electoral failures, suggesting that while there may be some truth to it, it does not encompass the entire picture.
