Yogesh Patel: BJP’s oldest nominee in Gujarat assembly elections

The suspense dragged till the very last day in Manjalpur, but, finally, Yogesh Patel had his way. The BJP gave the 76-year-old sitting MLA a ticket this time too, going against its informal policy of not giving tickets to anyone over 75.

The confirmation came on Thursday morning, with just hours left for the deadline for filing nominations, and the followers of the seven-time MLA started celebrating. Manjalpur was the last of the 182 seats in which the BJP announced its candidate.

Known for being firm in his views for speaking his mind, Patel had been insisting that he be given the BJP ticket this time too, while the BJP was reportedly not too keen to break the age criteria.


Ahead of the final day, Yogesh Patel started meetings in Manjalpur with BJP corporators and office bearers. A TOI report said he claimed that these were to take an overview of civic works in the constituency. There was word on his candidature either from the party or from him.

The first indication came on Wednesday night, when there were some preparations going on at Patel's residence for a rally to file his nomination papers

He went to Savli to pray at a Shiva temple and at the Samadhi of Savliwale Swami. He credited the blessings of the late spiritual leader for his success.

Patel said he was formally informed by the party in the morning about his candidature. The report also quoted him as saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first visit to the city asked him if he was ready. And during the second visit asked if his mood was good.

On being asked why there was a delay in the declaration of his candidature, Patel said that the party may have had some reasons for the delayed announcement.

Polls will be held in Gujarat in two phases - December 1 and December 5. Votes will be counted on December 8.