SRINAGAR: National Conference leader Choudhary Ramzan on Thursday said the party will finalise its candidate for the Budgam bypolls after consulting Member of Parliament Agha Ruhullah Mehdi.
Ramzan described Mehdi as “a very good leader, a very good speaker,” noting that his speeches carry evidence and conviction. “What he says about 370 etc., this is our manifesto as well. What he says is right, we are not against it,” Ramzan said, emphasising that Mehdi’s public positions align with the NC’s official stand.
He dismissed suggestions that Mehdi had distanced himself from the party, asserting that he remains firmly within the organisation. “If he says he will talk about leadership in the party, why not? This is his own party,” he said.
Recalling Mehdi’s long association with the NC, Kichloo said the party had always recognised his contributions. “He has won with the National Conference three times. The party gave him respect, made him a minister,” he said.
Ramzan also underlined Mehdi’s influence within the Shia community, saying he holds significant sway and respect. “Incidentally, he is also a leader of a Shia community. He has a good impact on that,” he added.
Reiterating that Mehdi’s opinion would be crucial in the upcoming bypoll decision, Ramzan said, “I think that the candidate will be made with his advice. He is part and parcel of the National Conference.”
Earlier, on Tuesday, Ruhullah Mehdi said that he will not campaign for the National conference in Budgam bypolls.
