Senior political leaderMohammed Moquimon Monday announced that a new political party will be launched in Odisha on January 12, marking National Youth Day. The announcement comes shortly after his expulsion from the Congress on charges of anti-party activities.
Speaking to the media, Moquim said the new party would prioritise young leadership, particularly from the coastal districts of Odisha. He added that while the groundwork for the party would begin on January 12, its formal organisational launch is likely to take place in the last week of March.
Moquim revealed that the proposed party’s name would retain an association with the Congress legacy, though the final name has not yet been decided. He said consultations are currently underway, including discussions with astrologers, before finalising the name.
Addressing speculation over the political future of his daughter,Sofia Firdous, Moquim clarified that she would independently decide her political course. He said no discussions had been held with her regarding joining the proposed party.
The announcement has triggered fresh political buzz in Odisha, particularly amid ongoing churn within opposition ranks. Moquim claimed that leaders from both the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Congress have shown interest in joining the new platform. He also said a group of young doctors has held discussions with him, indicating wider support among professionals and youth.
According to Moquim, the proposed party aims to present an alternative to the traditionally dominant BJD, BJP, and Congress, with a focus on issues specific to Odisha. He reiterated that while the party’s activities would begin on National Youth Day, it is expected to be formally launched by the end of March.