SHILLONG:
The presence of some leaders from other parties at the 25th Foundation Day programme of the United Democratic Party (UDP), on September 10, gave rise to speculations that they may join the party before the 2023 assembly polls.
Cabinet Minister and Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) legislator from Mawkyrwat Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar, independent MLA from Nongkrem, Lambor Malngiang, Saipung-Sutnga MLA Shitlang Pale of the Trinamool Congress, suspended Congress legislator from Nongpoh Mayralborn Syiem were seen.
Renikton, however, is still mum as to from which party he will contest the 2023 elections. “I believe I will still win the election though I will not disclose the party yet,” he said.
There were speculations that Renikton will likely switch to UDP. The HSPDP in turn also felt the political tremor prompting it to announce Medalsing Lyngdoh as its candidate from Mawkyrwat.
The UDP observed its Foundation Day by inaugurating its new office at Bomfyle road, Laitumkhrah.
Renikton told reporters after the programme that he was a special invitee to the programme.
Asked if it was a clear indication that he will join the UDP, he refused to divulge much but appreciated the achievements of the party.
He observed that people are looking to strengthen the regional forces and to have only one strong regional party.
“People want to strengthen regional parties and to have only one strong party. So it is the right time and I hope that the strongest party will be able to make it in the coming elections,” Renikton said.
Another constituency keenly observed by political parties is Nongkrem currently represented by Lambor Malngiang. The UDP is keen to give a ticket to the sitting MLA. Interestingly, UDP senior adviser Bindo Lanong is also seeking a party ticket from Nongkrem.
Shitlang Pale, who defected from Congress along with several key Congress players comprising Mukul Sangma and Charles Pyngrope among others, to join the TMC.
He will likely jump ship and is all set to face his former Congress colleague and Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Vincent Pala who is poised to contest from Pale’s constituency.