Praful Patel, who is the NCP's national vice president said that he himself was not in the running for the top post and the committee, which Sharad Pawar himself had set up will be deciding on his successor

Praful Patel said, "If the situation arises, the committee will decide on Pawar's successor and the decision will be unanimous. He sought time to think over his decision after the party asked him to reconsider it, and till the final decision is arrived at, there is no question of deliberating on his successor"

Patel said, "Whether Pawar remains president or not, he is the party's identity and soul"

The NCP leader was reacting to speculation about Supriya Sule emerging as the choice for national president and Ajit Pawar as the Maharashtra unit chief. Some reports also suggested that Patel could succeed Pawar

The party was trying to persuade Pawar to reconsider his decision, Patel said

"Party workers should have patience and stop resigning from their posts in protest against Sharad Pawar's decision," Praful Patel said