Pranab Is A Politician By Choice, I Became A Politician By Accident: Manmohan Singh
Acknowledging the disappointment, Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh spoke for the first time in public regarding his ‘no choice’ as the PM.
Hailing Pranab Mukherjee as the greatest living parliamentarian and Congressman, Singh said that Mukherjee was better qualified for the job and had all the legitimate reasons to be upset regarding the decision. However, at the same time, Singh said both he and Mukherjee were aware that “I had no choice in this matter”.
“In 2004 when Sonia ji chose me to become the prime minister, Pranab ji was one of the most distinguished colleagues that I had. He had every reason to feel a grievance that he was better qualified than I was to become the prime minister, but he also knew that I have no choice in the matter,” said Singh during the launch of President Mukherjee's new book, 'The Coalition Years: 1996-2012,' in New Delhi.
Singh went on to mention that the issue did not impede their relationship and they continue to share an extraordinary personal bond.
“He had a reason to feel upset but he respected me and we have a great relationship which will continue till we live,” said Singh.
He said history would record Mukherjee’s great contribution to the management of Indian polity.
"He had a knack to tackle issues and bought consensus to the table. His role in the management of national affair, ministry and parliament will be recorded in the history of Indian polity and economy,” said Singh.
CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, CPI Secretary Sudhakar Reddy, SP leader Akhilesh Yadav and DMK leader Kanimozhi also spoke about the former President’s great contribution and accolades, with each sharing their own personal experiences with him.
Youngest amongst the lot, Akhilesh Yadav said Mukherjee’s book is an inspiration for politicians like him and would come in handy, especially with elections around the corner.
