Elections – Mamata Banerjee Expresses Confidence in Fourth Consecutive Victory
Elections – Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal and leader of the Trinamool Congress, has voiced strong confidence about securing another term in office as campaigning concluded for the final phase of the state Assembly elections.
The veteran leader addressed supporters during a roadshow in south Kolkata on Monday, the last day of campaigning for the remaining 142 constituencies. She projected optimism that her party would return to power for a fourth straight term, continuing its rule that began in 2011 after defeating the Left Front government.
Final Phase Campaign Focuses on Key Constituencies
The second and concluding phase of polling covers seven districts, including several prominent constituencies in Kolkata. Among them is Bhabanipur, where Mamata Banerjee is contesting against senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. Other important seats include Chowringhee, Ballygunge, Rashbehari, Kasba, Kolkata Port, Entally, Shyampukur, Jorasanko, and Cossipore-Belgachhia.
Speaking to the public during the roadshow, Banerjee urged voters not to be influenced by statements from rival parties. She claimed that early polling trends had already indicated a favorable outcome for her party.
Appeal to Voters and Confidence After First Phase
Banerjee encouraged citizens to participate actively in the voting process, advising them to reach polling booths early on election day. She emphasized the importance of every vote in determining the state’s political future.
Referring to the first phase of elections held across 152 seats in 16 districts, she suggested that her party had already gained a significant advantage. According to her, the opposition had begun to recognize the likelihood of the Trinamool Congress returning to power with a strong mandate.
Roadshow Highlights and Party Presence
The roadshow covered approximately six kilometers, starting from Sulekha crossing in Jadavpur and ending at Gopalnagar intersection. The event saw participation from several senior leaders of the party, including ministers and sitting legislators, who joined Banerjee in mobilizing support.
The campaign atmosphere reflected a coordinated effort by the party leadership, with visible enthusiasm among supporters lining the route. The roadshow served as a final push to connect with voters before the campaign period officially ended.
Extensive Campaigning Across the State
Over the past six weeks, Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, who serves as the party’s national general secretary, have led an extensive campaign across West Bengal. Together, they addressed more than 100 public meetings, seeking support for candidates contesting in nearly all constituencies.
Their campaign strategy combined large rallies, roadshows, and direct voter outreach, aiming to consolidate support across urban and rural regions alike.
Candidate Changes and Internal Challenges
In a notable move ahead of the elections, the ruling party replaced 74 sitting legislators, citing performance concerns over the past five years. While the decision was intended to refresh the party’s lineup, it also led to dissatisfaction among some leaders who were denied tickets.
A few of these leaders publicly expressed their discontent following the announcement of candidates, indicating internal challenges within the party. However, the leadership maintained that the changes were necessary to strengthen governance and improve accountability.
Expectations Ahead of Results
Following the first phase of polling on April 23, Banerjee had stated that her party was already moving toward victory. Echoing this sentiment, Abhishek Banerjee suggested that the party could secure a large majority of seats from the initial phase itself.
The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, when the final outcome of the elections will be declared. Political observers are closely watching the results, which will determine whether the Trinamool Congress continues its decade-long rule or faces a shift in power.