Congress Confirms Aryadan Shoukath as Nilambur By-election Candidate

Malappuram: The Congress party has made a final decision to field Aryadan Shoukath as its candidate for the Nilambur by-election. His name has been officially announced with the approval of the High Command. A leadership meeting held in Kochi concluded that yielding to pressure from P.V. Anvar would damage the party’s prestige. Leaders believe they can make Anvar understand the situation, though the party is monitoring his moves closely.

Earlier, Anvar had declared support for any candidate the UDF (United Democratic Front) put forward, even “any devil,” but later changed his stance. Anvar continued to make moves against Shoukath’s candidature until the last moment, even creating an impression that he might contest himself. However, the leadership meeting decided not to succumb to these threats. Supporters of Aryadan Shoukath had also informed the party leadership that there would be serious repercussions if he was not given the candidacy.

Anvar has argued that local Muslim organizations are not in favor of Aryadan Shoukath’s candidature. He contended that Shoukath’s chances of winning are low and that this factor should be considered. When Anvar resigned as MLA, he had suggested that the UDF field V.S. Joy, with his initial aim being to obstruct Shoukath’s path. Anvar had also demanded that the UDF do more homework and prioritize the political equations of the Nilambur constituency over internal Congress equations.