‘No connection whatsoever’: Assam Congress shuts down AIUDF alliance talk

Congress legislator Rakibuddin Ahmed has firmly ruled out any electoral understanding with the All India United Democratic Front, delivering what appears to be a decisive blow to opposition unity efforts in Assam.

 

Speaking to reporters following a party meeting on November 20 at Sontoli, Ahmed dismissed speculation of a Congress-AIUDF tie-up in unequivocal terms.

 

"The AIUDF has already drifted away. We have no friendship, no relation, and no understanding with them," the MLA said, adding that there was no connection with the party "not even remotely."

 

Ahmed indicated that Congress would instead pursue alliances with other political groups, stating: "Our alliance will be with other parties."

 

The statement carries significant weight in Assam's political landscape, where opposition alliances have historically proved crucial in challenging the ruling dispensation. The two parties had previously worked together during the 2021 assembly elections as part of a broader opposition coalition.

 

Political observers suggest Ahmed's remarks could reshape the opposition's electoral strategy in the state. The clarification comes at a time when parties across Assam are finalising their pre-poll arrangements ahead of the forthcoming elections.