Shiv Sena opts for internal elections to choose party president

Mumbai: Finally, the Shiv Sena has decided to turn democratic. The late Balasaheb, who first said he did not believe in democracy, and now Uddhav, the current party supremo — all Thackerays — have refrained from contesting elections.

But that’s about to change. On January 23, the Sena, for the first time, will hold internal elections to choose the party president. Uddhav’s nomination is a foregone conclusion and though symbolic, the Sainiks will nonetheless cast their votes. January 23 is also the birth anniversary of Balasaheb.

The election will be held for the post of party president, members of the national executive committee and deputy leaders. Aspirants can file nomination papers between January 5 and 10; on January 11, nominations will be scrutinized; the date for withdrawal is January 13.