Arunachal BJP yet to finalise Rajya Sabha candidate; dismisses rumours of leadership change

The election process for the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Arunachal Pradesh has commenced with the issuance of the official notification for polling scheduled on June 18.
 

State BJP president Kaling Moyong said around 15 aspirants, including senior BJP worker Kenyir Ringu, have filed nominations or expressed interest in contesting for the seat. He clarified that the party has not yet finalised its official candidate.
 

"The process is underway and no candidate has been finalised so far," Moyong said.
 

According to the election schedule, the last date for filing nominations is June 8, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until June 11. Polling will be held on June 18 at the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, where MLAs will cast their votes to elect the state's lone Rajya Sabha representative.
 

Moyong also dismissed speculation about a possible change in the state's leadership, asserting that Chief Minister Pema Khandu would continue in office.
 

"There is no question of a leadership change. Under Pema Khandu's leadership over the past decade, Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed significant development across sectors," he said.
 

Meanwhile, former Itanagar Mayor Tamme Phassang on June 2, filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha seat, becoming the first candidate to formally enter the race.
 

Speaking after filing his nomination, Phassang said he would work towards the development of all districts of Arunachal Pradesh if elected to the Upper House of Parliament.
 

He also rejected rumours of a change in the state's leadership, saying Chief Minister Pema Khandu continues to enjoy widespread support.
 

"Everyone loves Chief Minister Pema Khandu. He will continue to lead the state in accordance with the party leadership's direction, given his tireless efforts towards Arunachal's development," Phassang said.
 

The Rajya Sabha election has generated considerable interest in the state, with multiple aspirants emerging ahead of the June 8 nomination deadline.