Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the people of Wayanad on Saturday after securing a resounding victory in the bye-election for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), she thanked her brother Rahul Gandhi for his unwavering support and for “showing her the way,” as she prepared to step into her new role as a Member of Parliament.
“Your Victory Is My Responsibility”
Priyanka Gandhi, who took an unassailable lead of over 4 lakh votes, shared an emotional message to the people of Wayanad. “My dearest sisters and brothers of Wayanad, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the trust you have placed in me,” she wrote. Emphasising her commitment, she added, “I will make sure that over time, you truly feel this victory has been your victory. The person you chose to represent you understands your hopes and dreams and fights for you as one of your own.”
Promising to be a relentless advocate for Wayanad in Parliament, she said, “I look forward to being your voice in Parliament!” She also thanked the people of Wayanad for the honour and the immense love they bestowed upon her.
A Seamless Transition of Leadership
Priyanka Gandhi’s victory marks a historic moment for the Congress Party as it solidifies its position in Kerala. Rahul Gandhi, who represented Wayanad in the previous term, vacated the seat after being elected from Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh earlier this year. In a strategic move, the Congress nominated Priyanka Gandhi, paving the way for her electoral debut.
In her message, Priyanka acknowledged the hard work of her colleagues and supporters in the United Democratic Front (UDF) and across Kerala. “To my colleagues in the UDF, leaders from across Kerala, workers, volunteers, and my office colleagues who worked incredibly hard in this campaign, thank you for your support,” she said. Reflecting on the demanding campaign, she added, “For tolerating my 12-hour-a-day (no food, no rest) car journeys, and for fighting like true soldiers for the ideals we all believe in, I am eternally grateful.”
Priyanka Gandhi also extended heartfelt thanks to her family for their unwavering encouragement. She credited her mother, Sonia Gandhi; husband, Robert Vadra; and her children, Raihan and Miraya, for their love and support. Turning to Rahul Gandhi, she wrote, “You are the bravest of them all … thank you for showing me the way and having my back, always!”
Congress Celebrates a “Fierce and Committed” Leader
Senior Congress leader K C Venugopal congratulated Priyanka Gandhi and hailed the people of Wayanad for their choice. “The love reposed by all sections of Wayanad shows that the Congress flag will always fly high!” he said. Venugopal assured voters that Priyanka would prioritize their welfare and address their concerns in Parliament, continuing the legacy of Rahul Gandhi’s dedicated representation.
With Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stepping into the national political arena as the MP for Wayanad, the Congress Party has not only secured a significant victory but also reinforced its commitment to the people of Kerala. Her landslide win signifies strong public trust and sets the stage for a dynamic new chapter in the district’s political representation.
As she prepares to take her seat in Parliament, Priyanka Gandhi’s focus remains clear: to honour the trust placed in her and champion the hopes and aspirations of Wayanad on the national stage.