'History will be kinder to me': Manmohan Singh's last press conference

Former PM Manmohan Singh, known for his economic reforms and coalition management, passed away at the age of 92. A distinguished economist, he leaves behind a rich legacy of governance and growth

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on December 26 at the age of 92, following prolonged health issues.

 

In his final press conference as Prime Minister on January 3, 2014, Singh made a statement that has resurfaced on social media over the past decade. Responding to questions about his perceived inability to control his ministers and act decisively in critical situations, he said, “I honestly believe history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media or for that matter, the Opposition parties in Parliament.”

 

He added, “I cannot divulge all the things that take place in the cabinet system of government. Taking into account the circumstances and the compulsions of a coalition polity, I have done as best as I could under the circumstances.”

 

 

At the time, the UPA-II government faced widespread allegations of corruption across multiple ministries, a factor contributing to the Congress Party’s defeat in the 2014 General Elections, which paved the way for Narendra Modi’s BJP to come to power.

 

Singh’s remarks came as he announced his decision to step down after the 2014 elections. Reflecting on his tenure, he highlighted the challenges of managing a coalition government while maintaining an average economic growth rate of 7.6 per cent. He acknowledged areas needing improvement, including employment generation, inflation control, and tackling corruption.

 

On Thursday, Singh passed away at AIIMS, New Delhi. The hospital confirmed his death, stating that he had been unwell due to age-related health issues. According to their statement, Singh lost consciousness at home and was brought to the hospital’s emergency unit at 8:06 pm. Despite efforts to revive him, he was declared dead at 9:51 pm on December 26.

A distinguished career

Manmohan Singh, born on September 26, 1932, in Punjab, served as India’s 14th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. An esteemed economist, he played a pivotal role in India’s economic reforms during his tenure as Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, initiating liberalisation and modernisation. Under his leadership, India experienced unprecedented growth, averaging 7.7 per cent annually, and emerged as one of the world’s largest economies. His legacy includes steering the nation through economic transformations and coalition challenges.