New Delhi, Oct 8: Congress veteran Mani Shankar Aiyar took a purported jibe at the top leadership of his party. Aiyar, while speaking to ANI, said the occupants of the post of Congress president could either be the mother or the son. His apparent reference was Congress president Sonia Gandhi and his son, the party vice president Rahul Gandhi. Also Read - In Absence of Sonia And Rahul, Congress Leaders to Meet Tomorrow to Discuss Organisational Issues

“I feel only two people can be the next president of the Congress, one mother, and one son,” Aiyar said. He further added that Rahul is likely to be elected unopposed as there is no candidate to challenge him for the top post. Also Read - Parliament LIVE: After Rajya Sabha Gives Nod to Farm Bills, Opposition Submits no-confidence Motion Against Upper House Deputy Chairman Harivansh

“Rahul has said openly that he is ready to contest elections. But if nobody is found only and if there is only one contestant, then how can there be elections,” the former union minister added. Also Read - Farm Bills to be Tabled in Rajya Sabha Today; Oppn Puts United Front, BJP Seeks Support From Regional Parties | Top Points

Congress leaders, over the past few months, have indicated towards Rahul’s elevation, with the Gandhi scion’s close confidant Sachin Pilot saying the volunteers on the ground have appealed for no further delay in appointing Rahul as the highest level authority in the party.

Earlier in the week, Congress’ chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said there is an unanimous appeal from the party ranks to appoint Rahul as the president. He, however, added that Congress is “committed to internal democracy”, and will elevate Rahul only after the due process of election.

Surjewala further said that the party would welcome contendership from others for the top post. “We are in a democratic party with internal democracy. Congress party has never shied away from a democratic challenge inside the party,” Surjewala had emphasised,” he said.