NEW DELHI, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held a Saturday news conference and silenced his critics, declaring his Congress party government was there to stay.
In the first news conference to be held by a prime minister in 12 years, Singh was to the point and direct in answering all questions posed by reporters, the Asian Age reported.
After 100 days in office, the prime minister gone through a battle dealing with an aggressive opposition party. He often referred to the fact his party never had the privilege of a "honeymoon".
Singh told reporters: "I believe our government is going to last for a full five years. Let there be no doubt or ambiguity about it,"
He dismissed suggestions Congress Party President Sonia Gandhi was a "super" prime minister. Singh said as Congress chairwoman she had every right to know what was happening in the government. But he said it is incorrect to say there are two power centers.
During the 90-minute news conference, Singh answered questions ranging from India-Pakistan relations to a crisis in Parliament.
"It is a great honor and privilege to be entrusted with this onerous responsibility," he told reporters.
