Farooq Abdullah, president of the National Conference and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Hence, hen has declined to be the joint Opposition’s presidential candidate. Moreover, stating that the Union Territory needs him to “help navigate these uncertain times”. And that he has “a lot more active politics ahead of me.”
“I am honoured to have had my name proposed as a possible joint opposition candidate for the office of President of India by Mamata Banerjee Sahiba. Subsequent to Mamata didi proposing my name, I have received a number of calls from opposition leaders offering their support for my candidature,” Abdullah said in a statement on Saturday.
Jammu Kashmir at Crossroads: Farooq Abdullah
However, the former chief minister decided to withdraw his name from consideration. Citing the need for his efforts in the Union Territory. “I believe that Jammu and Kashmir is at a crossroads. And my efforts are needed to help navigate these uncertain times”. Hence, he said in a statement.
“I have a lot more active politics ahead of me and look forward to making a positive contribution in the service of J&K and the country. Therefore I would like to respectfully withdraw my name from consideration. And I look forward to supporting the joint opposition consensus candidate”. The statement added.
The refusal of Abdullah to be considered as a presidential candidate is a setback for the opposition. He is the second political leader to withdraw his name from consideration as a joint presidential candidate. Previously, NCP chief Sharad Pawar declined to be the Opposition’s presidential candidate.
