Priyanka Gandhi is set to officially enter the race for the Wayanad bypolls by filing her nomination papers on October 23. The Congress General Secretary, who has been chosen as the United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate for the seat, will be accompanied by her brother and Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on the day of her nomination.
The bypolls for the Wayanad parliamentary seat, which became vacant after Rahul Gandhi's election to the Lok Sabha from Raebareli, will take place on November 13.
The Election Commission of India announced the bypoll schedule earlier, and Congress approved Priyanka Gandhi’s candidature on October 15. The day of her nomination will also feature a roadshow with Rahul Gandhi, marking a significant moment in her political journey.
Wayanad holds particular significance for the Congress, as it has been a constituency that Rahul Gandhi previously represented. In the upcoming bypolls, Priyanka is expected to face a competitive field, but her candidacy brings a strong political presence. If she succeeds in winning the seat, she will join her brother and mother, Sonia Gandhi, as the third member of the Gandhi family in the current Parliament.
In preparation for the bypolls, Congress has made strategic appointments, including Saral Patel as Media Coordinator for Wayanad. The elections will coincide with bye-elections in 47 assembly seats across 15 states, as well as the first phase of assembly elections in Jharkhand.
Priyanka Gandhi’s candidacy is viewed as a continuation of the Gandhi family's long-standing connection with key constituencies. Before actively entering politics, Priyanka was known for her role in managing the family strongholds of Amethi and Raebareli, and she has maintained her ties with these regions even after officially stepping into the political arena.
When Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge announced in June that Priyanka would contest the Wayanad seat, she expressed her deep connection with Amethi and Raebareli, assuring supporters that her involvement in these constituencies would continue.
While accepting the opportunity to represent Wayanad, Priyanka reiterated her commitment to her brother’s former constituency and promised to uphold the same level of dedication that Rahul Gandhi had provided.
Priyanka Gandhi's entry into the race has been met with confidence from within Congress. Rahul Gandhi, who has a strong association with Wayanad, expressed his belief that Priyanka would successfully win the seat.
He emphasised that both Wayanad and Raebareli would benefit from having two committed members of the Parliament. Rahul pledged to continue his support for Wayanad, ensuring that the commitments made during his tenure would be fulfilled.
Priyanka Gandhi, in her public statements, echoed her brother’s sentiments. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Wayanad and promised to work diligently on behalf of its people.
She assured voters that they would not feel Rahul Gandhi's absence, as she would strive to be a good representative. Her longstanding ties with Raebareli and Amethi, she said, would remain unbroken, and she would continue to assist her brother in those constituencies as well.
For Congress, the upcoming Wayanad bypolls mark a significant moment as Priyanka Gandhi prepares to step into the political spotlight in a key parliamentary seat.
With both Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi deeply invested in Wayanad, the party is looking to maintain its hold on the constituency while strengthening its broader political strategy.
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