A dissident leader said Rajesh Pilot wants to take charge himself, that Balram Jakhar is unwilling to accept Kesri, and Karunakaran doesn't want Antony. The other three CWC members who are trying to requisition an AICC session to replace Rao are willing to accept either Kesri or Antony.
A close associate of Sharad Pawar yesterday said the Maharashtra leader is not in the race and will agree to the senior-most CWC member taking over as interim president for three months. That points to Kesri.
Pawar prefers Kesri because Antony could settle into the saddle for a long stint.