Conscience not permitting, won’t contest President poll: APJ Abdul Kalam

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, June 18, 2012: APJ Abdul Kalam on Monday issued a statement saying he will not contest the President election while thanking Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee and other political parties for proposing his name.

In his statement to the media, Kalam said, "I have considered the totality of the matter and the present political situation and decided not to contest the presidential election 2012." He said he was overwhelmed by the support but he won’t be contesting.

The former president conveyed his reluctance to contest after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani called him up thrice to persuade him to be the Opposition’s candidate against UPA nominee Pranab Mukherjee, sources said.

Kalam, the predecessor to current President Pratibha Patil, in his statement said his "conscience is not permitting" him to contest.

The BJP was trying hard to persuade him to contest, with Advani deputing his close aide Sudheendra Kulkarni to meet him twice on Monday.

Kalam’s candidature was initally pushed by Mamata, who broke ranks with the UPA to prop him. The former president had, however, said that he could consider entering the fray only if there was surety about his victory.

Several Opposition leaders reportedly talked to Kalam over phone on Sunday to know about his plans. The BJP was more in favour of fielding Kalam than former Lok Sabha speaker PA Sangma, who is Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s choice.

Kalam’s full statement

My dear friends,

You are aware of the developments in the run up of the presidential election. Though I have never aspired to serve another term or show interest in contesting the election madam Mamata Banerjee and other political parties wanted me to be their candidates may many citizens also expressed the same wish. It only reflects their love and affection for me and the aspiration of the people. I am really overwhelmed by this support. This being their wish, I respect it. I want to thank them for the trust they have in me

I have considered the totality of the matter and present political situation and decided not to contest the presidential election 2012

APJ Abdul Kalam

18th June 2012

New Delhi

Courtesy: CNN-IBN