Derek O’Brien rolls out ‘Morning Walk’ Campaign, bats for Mamata’s fourth term
The Statesman | 23 February 2026
Senior leader of the Trinamul Congress Derek O’Brien on Saturday unveiled a fresh political outreach initiative titled “Morning Walk,” declaring that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is “all set for a fourth term” and backing the assertion with economic indicators.
Launching the first instalment ~ “Morning Walk #1” ~ O’Brien said the series would present facts and data showcasing the performance of the TMC-led government in West Bengal.
“Mamata Banerjee all set for fourth term. Some reasons why,” O’Brien said, as he pointed to what he described as notable economic gains during her tenure.
Citing figures, he said the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) had increased fivefold to Rs 21.5 lakh crore. He further claimed that the state economy had more than tripled to Rs 18 lakh crore and that exports had doubled to $12 billion.
The Rajya Sabha MP also shared a video link as part of the campaign, signalling a push to combine digital engagement with statistical arguments to strengthen the party’s narrative ahead of the next Assembly polls.
The Trinamul Congress has consistently highlighted progress in infrastructure, welfare delivery, and industrial expansion, asserting that West Bengal has sustained economic growth despite broader national and global challenges. Party leaders attribute this trajectory to administrative continuity and targeted welfare initiatives introduced since Banerjee assumed office in 2011.
Critics, however, argue that macroeconomic indicators alone do not reflect the everyday economic pressures faced by businesses and job seekers.
As political activity gathers pace in the state, O’Brien’s “Morning Walk” series appears designed to frame the debate around governance and development, positioning Banerjee’s administration as performance-driven as it seeks another mandate.