Firhad Hakim resigns as Kolkata Mayor, says "never wanted to sit on this chair"

Firhad Hakim resigned as Mayor of Kolkata on Friday after his request to step down was accepted by Mamata Banerjee. Following his resignation, Hakim said he had never considered himself worthy of holding the post and had never aspired to occupy the Mayor’s chair. His departure comes amid political developments in West Bengal following the recent change in government.

Speaking after stepping down, Hakim reflected on his tenure and compared himself with former occupants of the office. He said, “I was not even equal to the fingernail of the great personalities who have occupied this position. I never wanted to sit in the Mayor’s chair.” He stated that he had always viewed the office with humility and respect.

According to party leaders, Hakim had earlier sought permission to resign but was requested to continue. He renewed his request on Friday, after which approval was granted. Hakim has served as Kolkata Mayor since 2018 and has also held several ministerial responsibilities in the state government during his political career.

The resignation comes at a time of organisational and political challenges within the Trinamool Congress. Recent developments have included internal disagreements, resignations by elected representatives, and changes within the party’s legislative structure following the Assembly election results. No announcement has yet been made regarding his successor as Mayor of Kolkata.