Rahul Gandhi to Retain Raebareli Seat, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to Contest from Wayanad
After the Lok Sabha election results, political parties across the country are holding internal meetings to plan their next steps. On Monday, top Congress leaders gathered at party president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence to decide on Rahul Gandhi’s parliamentary seat.
Following the meeting, Kharge announced that Rahul Gandhi will retain the Raebareli seat, previously held by Sonia Gandhi, and will relinquish the Wayanad seat. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be the Congress candidate for the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency.
Meeting Attendees
The meeting was attended by senior Congress leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and KC Venugopal. Their participation underscores the significance of the decisions made during the meeting.
Strategic Moves
This decision aims to strengthen Congress’s position in Uttar Pradesh with Rahul Gandhi in Raebareli, while leveraging Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s appeal to boost the party’s prospects in Kerala through her candidacy in Wayanad.
What Did Rahul Gandhi Say About Leaving the Wayanad Seat?
Rahul Gandhi stated that it was a difficult decision for him because he has an emotional attachment to both Raebareli and Wayanad. He said, “The past five years as the MP from Wayanad have been wonderful and rewarding. The people of Wayanad supported and energized me during very tough times. I will never forget this.” He also assured that he would continue visiting Wayanad and fulfill the promises made to its people.
Rahul further mentioned that both Raebareli and Wayanad would effectively have “two MPs.” He added, “I have a longstanding connection with Raebareli, and I am very pleased to represent it. This was not an easy decision, as I am deeply attached to both Wayanad and Raebareli.”
Priyanka’s Statement on Entering the Electoral Arena for the First Time
Addressing the media after the meeting, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her happiness about the decision. She said, “I am very happy with this decision. It will be an honor for me to represent Wayanad. I will strive to be a good representative. I have a longstanding relationship with Raebareli and have done significant work for Raebareli and Amethi. I will also assist my brother in Raebareli. We will support each other in both Wayanad and Raebareli.”
Context of the Meeting
The Congress high command held this meeting to resolve the uncertainty regarding whether Rahul Gandhi would retain the Raebareli or Wayanad seat. The session also likely included discussions about Congress’s strategy for the upcoming elections.
