Shillong : Senior BJP leader and Pynthorumkhrah MLA AL Hek on Tuesday said the party has enough time to announce its candidate for the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha byelection, adding that there is no delay in the selection process.
Speaking to reporters, Hek said the BJP is expected to announce its candidate before November 20.
“We still have sufficient time. The party will declare its candidate at the appropriate time,” he said.
Hek also made it clear that he will not contest the by-election despite being approached earlier by the party.
“Initially, I was asked to contest the by-election, but I informed the party that I have several other responsibilities at present. Therefore, I will not be contesting. The final decision rests with the party,” he said.
The senior BJP leader revealed that he has recommended the name of South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai to the party’s central leadership as a potential candidate for the bypoll.
“I have proposed his name. Now we will wait for the national leadership to take a decision. Whoever the party nominates, we will accept the decision and contest unitedly,” Hek stated.
Responding to questions over the timing of the candidate announcement, Hek dismissed concerns, saying there is still ample time before the election.
“The election is still five to six months away. A preparation period of three to four months is more than enough for a by-election. Therefore, it should not be viewed as a delay,” he added.