This generational transformation was formally held at the Central Congress held in Ranche on April 15, with Hemant being elected President of JMM. Shibu Soren, the towering tribal leader and founder of the party, took the first place for 38 years.
Hemant has served as the party’s executive chairman since 2015, directing JMM through two successful rally elections and becoming its central decision-maker. His promotion to the president comes as he firmly established himself as the leading tribal voice in state and national politics.
The leadership transition also puts a long-running family in control of the party. After his brother Durga Soren died in 2009, Hemant entered active politics and quickly became the face of JMM. Durga’s wife Sita Soren joined the BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha poll, with Hemant’s younger brother Basant Soren loyal to him.
Hemant was arrested by the law enforcement agency in January last year. The party appoints senior leader Champai Soren as chief minister in absence. Hemant returned to power after being released on bail in June. Several leaders, including Champai Soren, defected to the BJP ahead of the upcoming parliamentary poll.
Despite the challenges, Hemant strengthened his holdings of the party, and his wife Kalpana Soren also played an active political role in MLA.
