Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is set to expand his cabinet on Friday. Approximately 10 new faces are likely to be included. Political activity is intense, and the final decision on the names of the new ministers will be made soon.
Gujarat Cabinet: The cabinet expansion is scheduled for Friday in Gujarat. This decision has intensified political stirrings in the state. Under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's leadership, discussions are rife about who will be inducted and who might be dropped from the cabinet. Political experts consider this a significant move in the context of the upcoming elections and the party's strategy.
Crucial Meeting at CM's Residence
Ahead of the cabinet expansion, a crucial meeting has been organized at the Chief Minister's residence. Current ministers and senior office-bearers of the organization will attend this meeting. It is believed that the final decision on the names of the new ministers will be taken during this meeting. The agenda of the meeting is primarily focused on the appointment of new ministers and the rotation of existing ones.
10 New Faces May Be Included
According to sources, senior BJP leaders have indicated that approximately 10 new faces might be included in this cabinet expansion. Furthermore, nearly half of the existing ministers could be replaced. This suggests that CM Bhupendra Patel is set to make changes to balance his team and address political requirements.
Current Ministerial Structure
Gujarat's current cabinet comprises a total of 17 ministers, including CM Patel. Among them, eight hold cabinet rank, and eight are Ministers of State (MoS). With a total of 182 members in the state assembly, the maximum number of ministers can be 27. Consequently, after the expansion, new faces will be inducted into the cabinet, and the total strength is likely to increase.
This cabinet expansion holds significant political importance. Through this expansion, the BJP aims to maintain its organizational balance and ensure representation across various regions and social groups. Political analysts suggest that this expansion is a crucial step for the party's upcoming electoral strategy and organizational strengthening.
Bhupendra Patel's Second Term as Chief Minister: Background
Bhupendra Patel took oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat for the second time on December 12, 2022. His leadership in the state has remained stable since his first term as CM. Now, through this cabinet expansion, he is prepared to strengthen his team and face new challenges.
Earlier this month, some significant changes also took place. MoS Jagdish Vishwakarma took charge as the new President of the BJP's state unit, replacing Union Minister CR Patil. This change was made as an effort to strengthen the party's organizational structure and assign new responsibilities.
Further Process
According to sources, the cabinet expansion is expected to take place on Friday at 11:30 AM. During the swearing-in ceremony, new ministers will take the oath of office and secrecy. Following this, responsibilities will be distributed, and portfolios will be allocated to the new ministers.
