Wayanad: Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra officially filed her nomination papers on Wednesday as the party's candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha by-election in Wayanad. This marks her electoral debut, and she was met with a warm welcome from thousands of supporters and UDF leaders at Kalpetta.
During her public address, Priyanka reflected on her extensive experience in political campaigning, stating, "I have 35 years of experience, having started at the age of 17 when I campaigned for my late father, Rajiv Gandhi." She expressed her honour in being chosen to represent the people of Wayanad and praised the community for their resilience during recent landslides.
Present at the event were prominent Congress figures, including her mother Sonia Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Priyanka's husband, Robert Vadra and their children joined her during a vibrant roadshow from the new bus stand at Kalpetts, where they engaged with the enthusiastic crowd, even lifting a young supporter into their vehicle.
Priyanka Gandhi is contesting against LDF's Sathyan Mokeri and BJP's Navya Haridas. Mokeri, a former MLA, is known for addressing agricultural issues, while Haridas has served as a two-time councillor and is the state general secretary of the Mahila Morcha.
Congress General Secretary Smt. @priyankagandhi ji signed her nomination papers in the presence of local Congress leaders.
— Congress (@INCIndia) October 23, 2024
She will shortly begin her roadshow in Kalpetta to thank and seek the blessings of the lovely people of Wayanad. pic.twitter.com/Cu5CBkDHVa
The by-election became necessary after Rahul Gandhi vacated the Wayanad seat, having also won from Rae Bareli in the last Lok Sabha polls. Voting in Wayanad is scheduled for November 13.
