Bhubaneswar, April 17, 2025:
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday filed his nomination for the post of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president, setting the stage for his ninth consecutive term as the party’s chief.
The nomination process took place at the BJD headquarters in Bhubaneswar, where senior party leaders and workers gathered in large numbers to extend their support. With no other contender in sight, Patnaik is expected to be elected unopposed, continuing his decades-long leadership of the regional party he founded in 1997.
Speaking briefly after submitting his nomination papers, Patnaik thanked the party cadre and leaders for their continued faith in his leadership. “I am grateful for the trust and support of our workers and leaders. Together, we will continue working for the people of Odisha,” he said.
Under Patnaik’s leadership, the BJD has maintained a strong hold in Odisha politics, securing five consecutive terms in the state assembly since 2000. His image as a clean and development-oriented leader has played a major role in the party’s consistent success.
Party insiders say the re-election of Patnaik is a formality and reflects the unity within the BJD ahead of the crucial 2024 general elections and 2025 state elections.
The final list of office-bearers, including the president, is expected to be announced in the coming days after the scrutiny and withdrawal process is completed.