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 -- Rajya Sabha MP V Hanumanth Rao and Ambati Rambabu -- 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 Speaking to newsmen later, Hanumanth Rao said he had withdrawn from the race following requests from AICC president Sitram Kesri and Sonia Gandhi's aide V Geogre to facilitate the unopposed election of Mallikarjun.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.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.