SHILLONG, JUL 7: BJP leader and Pynthorumkhrah MLA AL Hek on Tuesday said the party has sufficient time to announce its candidate for the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha byelection.

“We still have time until around November 20. That gives us ample opportunity to declare our candidate,” Hek told reporters.

The senior BJP leader also clarified that he would not be contesting the by-poll despite being approached earlier.  

“Initially, I was asked to contest the by-election. However, I informed the party that I have several other responsibilities to attend to at the moment. Therefore, I will not be able to contest. The final decision now rests with the party,” he said.

On the prospect of South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai being fielded as the BJP candidate, Hek said he had already recommended his name to the central leadership.

“I have proposed his name. We will now wait for the national leadership to take a call. Whoever is nominated, we will accept the decision and contest strongly,” he stated.

Responding to queries about the delay in announcing a candidate, Hek said there was no cause for concern.

“The election is still 5 to 6 months away, so this cannot be termed a delay. A preparation period of 3 to 4 months is more than adequate for a by-election. I am referring specifically to the by-election, not the general election,” he added.