SAD appoints new leadership to strengthen organization ahead of 2027 Punjab elections

August 12, 2025

Chandigarh: In a strategic move to bolster its organizational structure, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal announced the appointment of three new city presidents and 55 deputy presidents across Punjab.

The appointments, aimed at revitalizing the party’s grassroots network, come as SAD prepares for the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.

Gurbachan Singh Babbehali has been named the president of Gurdaspur city, Jarnail Singh Wahid has been appointed as the president of Kapurthala city, and Khanmukh Bharti has been entrusted with the leadership of Moga city. The 55 deputy presidents will support these leaders in strengthening the party’s presence at the district level. The appointments were formalized during a meeting in Chandigarh, signaling SAD’s intent to consolidate its base amid evolving political challenges.

With less than two years until the 2027 elections, the party faces the critical task of reinforcing its organizational framework. The recent leadership changes follow the election of a new head for the party’s organizational wing, reflecting Sukhbir Badal’s focus on rejuvenating SAD’s structure. Political analysts view these appointments as a calculated effort to energize the cadre and reconnect with the party’s core voter base, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.

SAD has also been actively engaging with its traditional supporters through campaigns like the land pooling policy, which addresses key agrarian concerns. However, the party continues to grapple with challenges stemming from allegations of sacrilege during its previous tenure, which have dented its public image. These allegations remain a significant hurdle as SAD seeks to rebuild trust among voters.

The appointments are seen as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the party’s organizational machinery and counter rival narratives ahead of the elections. As Punjab’s political landscape heats up, SAD’s ability to unify its ranks and address voter concerns will be critical to its electoral prospects in 2027.