Mallikarjun re-elected APCC chief

HYDERABAD, June 8: In a sudden turn of developments, Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee APCC president Mallikarjun was unanimously reelected for the post with the other two contenders 8212; Rajya Sabha MP V Hanumanth Rao and Ambati Rambabu 8212; withdrawing their nominations today.

While Hanumanth Rao filed his papers yesterday, Rambabu filed today. PCC Additional Returning Officer Mool Chand Meena announced the unanimous election of Mallikarjun to mediapersons. Speaking to newsmen later, Hanumanth Rao said he had withdrawn from the race following requests from AICC president Sitram Kesri and Sonia Gandhi8217;s aide V Geogre to facilitate the unopposed election of Mallikarjun.

Though he entered the arena as per the desires of ordinary party workers, he was opting out in difference to the wishes of the high command. However, Mool Chand Meena contradicted the statement of Hanumanth Rao.