Priyanka Gandhi’s electoral debut: a new hope for India’s Congress?

While her victory in Wayanad seems assured, analysts say Priyanka and her brother must lead a broader party overhaul to beat Modi’s BJP

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Priyanka Gandhi addresses Congress party supporters during an election rally in Chandigarh, India, in May. Photo: AFP

Published: 12:01pm, 6 Nov 2024

Priyanka Gandhi, heir to India’s influential Nehru-Gandhi dynasty, is set to enter the political fray, contesting her first parliamentary election in a move expected to energise the opposition.

But analysts warn that her family legacy alone may not be enough to counter the formidable influence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Gandhi will run for election on November 20 in Wayanad, Kerala, a constituency viewed as a safe seat for the Congress party, the main opposition to Modi’s government. The results will be announced on November 23.

Her candidacy comes after her brother, Rahul Gandhi, opted to vacate Wayanad to focus on his seat in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh, after successfully securing both constituencies in this year’s national election.

With their mother Sonia Gandhi stepping back due to health issues, Priyanka and Rahul are expected to take on more significant leadership roles within Congress.

(From left) Rahul Gandhi, Congree President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi. Photo: AP

But political experts stress that Priyanka’s parliamentary debut must be paired with a comprehensive overhaul of the party to effectively challenge the BJP.