In India, Rahul Gandhi is confirmed in his position as number one opponent of Narendra Modi. He was named, this Wednesday, June 26, leader of the opposition, a position that had not existed since 2014. But during the elections which ended on June 4, the Congress Party emerged strengthened and Rahul Gandhi will therefore lead the charge in the Indian Parliament against the Prime Minister’s coalition.
2 mins
With our correspondent in Bangalore, Como Bastin
A party needs a minimum of 56 MPs in Parliament to qualify for the post of leader of the opposition, and no opposition party has reached that number since Narendra Modi’s triumphant election in 2014. Since June 4, the Congress Party has had around 100 seats and has therefore been able to elect Rahul Gandhi.
The title of leader of the opposition is not only symbolic in India, it is a real government position, which gives a say in important appointments in state agencies. The leader of the opposition is also the logical successor to the Prime Minister, if the government is overthrown.
“ The Indians said they wanted a stronger opposition. »
Rahul Gandhi addressed the Speaker of Parliament, a BJP member from Narendra Modi also newly elected: “ Of course, the government has the political power, but the opposition also represents the voice of the Indian people. And in these elections, Indians said they wanted a stronger opposition in order to defend the constitution of this country. »
Despite some dissension, the choice of Rahul Gandhi was imposed within the opposition coalition. Formerly unpopular with Indians, the heir to the Nehru dynasty, Gandhi was able to change his image. The organization of two major marches for harmony across the country and its election in Uttar Pradesha state considered a stronghold of the BJP, contributed to this.
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