Picture Courtesy : The Wire
In a unanimous choice Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu has been named the vice-presidential candidate of the ruling NDA coalition.
The BJP Parliamentary Board took the decision on Monday evening at a meeting attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“BJP Parliamentary Board unanimously chose Venkaiah Naidu as our vice-presidential candidate and all NDA allies have welcomed this decision. He has also accepted the nomination,” BJP president Amit Shah said at a press conference after the meeting.
“Naidu ji will file his nomination papers as the NDA’s vice-presidential candidate tomorrow at 11am,” Shah added.
Party sources said Naidu, who is currently serving as the Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation as well as Information and Broadcasting, had emerged as the front-runner in the nomination for vice-president.
The union minister has assisted and accompanied NDA presidential candidate+ Ram Nath Kovind during his campaign in various states. The BJP is keen to have a vice-presidential candidate representing one of the southern states, where it wants to strengthen its presence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Naidu was admired across the political spectrum+ and was a fitting candidate for the office of vice-president. Naidu’s vast experience as a peoples’ representative will help him discharge the role of Rajya Sabha chairperson, PM Modi said in series of tweets following the announcement.
I know @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu for years. Have always admired his hardwork & tenacity. A fitting candidate for the office of Vice President.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 17, 2017
A farmer’s son, @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu brings years of experience in public life and is admired across the political spectrum.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 17, 2017
The years of Parliamentary experience @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu has will help him discharge the important role of Rajya Sabha Chairperson.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 17, 2017
The vice-presidential election will be held on August 5 and the last date for filing of nominations is July 18.
