Rahul Gandhi Has Agreed to Contest From Wayanad: Kerala Cong Chief

Congress party President Rahul Gandhi.

(Photo: Reuters)

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has agreed to contest from Kerala’s Wayanad seat in the upcoming Lok Sabha election, said state unit president Mullappally Ramachandran on Saturday, 23 March.

Speaking to the Hindustan Times, Ramachandran said “talks were on about this for almost a month. Initially, he was not willing. After much persuasion, he agreed.”

The party has already announced Gandhi’s candidature from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh in the first list.

Congress General secretary Oommen Chandy, however, said that Gandhi is yet to respond on the state unit’s offer for the Wayanad seat.

Speaking to news agency ANI, Chandy said: “We have requested Congress President Rahul Gandhi to contest from one of the seats in Kerala. The seat on offer is Wayanad. Rahul Gandhi's response is expected anytime today.”

Party spokesperson confirmed the Kerala unit’s communication, adding that Gandhi was considering his decision. Addressing reporters in New Delhi, he said:

“We thank them for their effort and also their expression of love and affection. The Congress president will positively consider it.”

Meanwhile, T Siddiqui, who had been announced as the candidate from the seat has withdrawn his name from the race. Addressing a press conference, Siddiqui said that it would be an “honour for the state” if Gandhi contests from Wayanad.