Priyanka Gandhi, campaigning for Wayanad’s Lok Sabha bypoll, promised to strengthen ties with constituents.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra made a heartfelt appeal to the people of Wayanad on Wednesday, as she kicked off her campaign for the upcoming by-poll, following her brother Rahul Gandhi’s decision to vacate the Lok Sabha seat. Addressing a rally attended by party leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka emphasized the enduring bond between her family and the constituents of Wayanad.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addresses a nomination rally for the upcoming Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll, in Wayanad
In her speech, she acknowledged the support Wayanad provided when “the whole world was turning its back” against Rahul Gandhi.
“These values (truth and non-violence) moved my brother to walk 8000 km across India for love and unity. He could not have done that without your support. You stood with my brother when the whole world was turning its back against him. You gave him your strength and courage to keep fighting,” she said.
“My whole family will always remain indebted and grateful to you. I know he had to leave you and I promise that I will only strengthen the bond between you and him,” Priyanka Gandhi added.
Priyanka, who is making her electoral debut in the upcoming Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll, promised to strengthen the bond between the people of Wayanad and her brother.
Wayanad bypoll
Rahul Gandhi vacated the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, leading to the bypoll. Priyanka assured the people that she would work to understand their struggles and issues, saying, “My brother has explained to me the large issues you are facing… I want to come to your house and understand straight from you what your issues are and how we can tackle them.”
She also thanked Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge for approving her candidature and her family for their support. “It is my honour to represent you if you give me a chance,” she added.
The bypoll is scheduled to take place on November 13. Priyanka Gandhi will be up against BJP’s Navya Haridas and LDF candidate Sathyan Mokeri.
Family and Party Support
Priyanka also took a moment to acknowledge the role of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in backing her candidacy, as well as the unwavering support from her family. “I am thankful to Kharge ji for approving my candidature and to my family for standing by me during this important moment,” she said.
Her appeal to the people of Wayanad was personal, heartfelt, and strategic, tapping into the emotional ties the constituency shares with the Gandhi family. She positioned herself as not only a representative but also as a bridge between the people and her brother, ensuring that the bond built by Rahul Gandhi would not be broken but instead strengthened under her leadership.
A Critical Election for Congress
The Wayanad bypoll has become a crucial battleground for Congress as it seeks to regain momentum in Kerala ahead of the general elections. Priyanka’s entry into the fray brings a fresh yet familiar face to the campaign, with many viewing her as a dynamic force capable of revitalizing Congress’s fortunes in the region.
The upcoming by-election will test Priyanka’s ability to connect with the voters on a personal level while upholding her family’s legacy in Wayanad. If her launch rally is any indication, she is committed to engaging with the people directly, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.
The Congress too is upbeat. Almost a week before her nomination, the Kerala Congress had said that Priyanka Gandhi’s nomination from Wayanad could be a game changer and that she could even win the seat with a record margin.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s campaign kickoff not only set the tone for her bid to win Wayanad but also laid the groundwork for a continued and deepening relationship between the Gandhi family and the constituency.
“This is not just an election; it is about continuing the trust and relationship my brother built with you. I am here to carry that forward,” she declared, setting the stage for what could be one of the most closely watched political contests in the country.