Party Chief: Why the BJP Chose a Working President Instead of Naming a New
Party Chief: The recent decision by the Bharatiya Janata Party to appoint Nitin Nabin as its working president instead of immediately naming a full-time national president has sparked political discussion across India. While many observers expected a direct announcement of the new BJP chief, the party opted for a transitional arrangement that reflects its internal traditions, organisational discipline, and timing considerations. This move is not sudden or unusual within the BJP’s political framework, but rather a carefully planned step rooted in precedent, constitutional practice, and strategic consensus-building.
Understanding the Concept of a Working President
The post of working president is not formally mentioned in the BJP constitution. Despite this, the role has evolved as a practical solution during leadership transitions. The position allows the party to maintain continuity while preparing the next national president for full responsibility. BJP leaders describe it as an interim arrangement designed to ensure stability at the top while internal processes are completed.
This approach reflects the BJP’s preference for structured transitions rather than abrupt leadership changes. By appointing a working president, the party ensures that day-to-day organisational matters continue smoothly under experienced supervision.
Historical Precedent Within the BJP
The idea of a working president gained prominence in 2019 when Jagat Prakash Nadda was appointed to the role after Amit Shah joined the Union Cabinet as Home Minister. Nadda served in that capacity for around six months, working closely with Shah and understanding the complexities of managing the world’s largest political party.
In January 2020, Nadda was formally elected as BJP national president. His journey established the working president role as an informal yet significant stepping stone toward the top leadership position. Nitin Nabin now becomes only the second leader in the party’s history to follow this path.
Constitutional Tenure and Leadership Timing
According to the BJP constitution, a national president can serve a maximum of two terms, each lasting three years. Jagat Prakash Nadda has now completed nearly six years in office, making the transition inevitable. However, the party prefers to align leadership changes with internal elections, ideological consultations, and favourable timing.
The appointment of a working president allows the BJP to respect constitutional norms while avoiding any administrative vacuum during the transition phase.
Religious Timing and Cultural Considerations
Another important factor influencing the timing is Khar Maas, a period considered inauspicious in Hindu tradition. This month-long phase begins in mid-December and ends on January 14 with Makar Sankranti. Major decisions and formal ceremonies are often avoided during this time.
By naming Nitin Nabin as working president just before Khar Maas, the party created a temporary arrangement. Once the period concludes, the formal process for electing the new BJP national president is expected to begin.
Organisational Elections Across States
The BJP has already completed organisational elections in 30 out of 37 states and Union Territories. This is a crucial requirement, as the party constitution mandates that internal elections in at least half of the states must be concluded before initiating the national presidential election.
With this milestone largely achieved, the party is structurally ready to move forward. BJP leaders indicate that the election process for the national president may take around four days and could begin soon after January 14.
Consensus-Based Leadership Selection
Although the BJP conducts a formal election for its national president, the outcome is often decided well in advance. The party, along with its ideological mentor Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, places strong emphasis on consensus rather than contest.
In this context, Nitin Nabin’s elevation is widely seen as a foregone conclusion. His current role allows him to assist Nadda closely, gain national-level exposure, and prepare for a smooth takeover, much like Nadda did under Amit Shah.
Profile of Nitin Nabin
Nitin Nabin is 45 years old and currently serves as the Road Construction Minister in Bihar. He is a five-time Member of the Legislative Assembly from the Bankipur constituency in Patna. His political journey began early, as he became an MLA at just 26 years of age following the demise of his father, Navin Kishore Sinha, a respected BJP leader.
By background, Nabin belongs to the Kayastha community. If appointed as BJP national president, he would become the first party chief from Bihar and eastern India, marking a significant regional milestone.
A Potential Record-Breaking Leadership Role
If Nitin Nabin takes over as BJP president next year, he will become the youngest person to hold the post. This would break the record set by Nitin Gadkari, who assumed the role at the age of 52. Such a move would underline the BJP’s focus on generational change and organisational energy.
Endorsement From the Prime Minister
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has publicly praised Nitin Nabin, describing him as a hardworking and dedicated party worker. He highlighted Nabin’s organisational experience, legislative performance, and ministerial record in Bihar.
The Prime Minister also emphasized Nabin’s grounded personality, humble nature, and commitment to public service. These attributes, combined with his past responsibilities as BJP in-charge for states like Chhattisgarh and Sikkim, strengthen his position as a future national leader.
Strategic Transition With Long-Term Vision
The decision to appoint a working president instead of immediately naming a BJP chief reflects strategic patience rather than hesitation. It allows the party to align organisational readiness, cultural timing, and leadership grooming into one cohesive plan. For the BJP, leadership change is not just about succession, but about continuity, preparation, and unity.