Shillong: As Meghalaya is slowly inching towards the 2023 general elections, a flurry of political activities is being witnessed in the state. On Tuesday, three leaders from different political parties and others joined the National People’s Party (NPP).
Umsning Member of District Council (MDC) Macdalyne S Mawlong, MM Danggo, the ex-MLA from Ranikor constituency, Manstudy Nongrem, former Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council MDC from Langrin constituency, Hambertus Nongtdu, former CEM of Jaintia Hills ADC, and Thomas Nongtdu, Ex-MDC of Jaintia Hills ADC, joined the NPP.
The leaders were welcomed and felicitated by NPP national president Conrad K Sangma in the presence of NPP state president WR Kharlukhi, deputy chief minister Prestone Tynsong and several other senior members.
During the occasion, NPP national vice president Tynsong said newly-joined member Macdalyne S Mawlong will contest from Nongpoh and former Meghalaya Assembly Speaker Danggo will contest from Ranikor. Tynsong added that in these two constituencies the block committee needs to be restructured.
Shifting allegiance from the People’s Democratic Front (PDF), Mawlong said she was happy to be part of party and that the NPP was one party that was bringing in a lot of development work. She assured to work for the welfare of all.
“We have observed that no other government or party has taken sensitive issue like this one has and brought drastic change…With the leadership of NPP national president Conrad Sangma, we could see the changes in the state,” said Mawlong.
She added that she was positive that the party will come out with flying colours in the 2023 polls. Mawlong said she was looking forward to work with Sangma through his support and guidance.
NPP national president Conrad K Sangma said it was wonderful to see when family grows and when people with the same mindset and desire to work for the state comes together.
Sangma took the opportunity to welcome Danggo, Mawlong, Nongrem and several others who joined the party. He said with Macdalyne entering the party, he was sure it will not just add a great variety of thoughts and ideas but will be able to focus on issues especially like women empowerment and youth.
“Many doubted the existence of the NPP and felt we wouldn’t survive even a year. The party didn’t let criticism put us down but we became tougher and stronger as a party,” said Sangma.
Also read: Meghalaya: Agnes Kharshiing demands CBI probe into rat hole coal mining
The national president also reminded that as they join the NPP, they shouldn’t forget the purpose which is to serve the people. “As leaders, we must have our ears and feet to the ground. Take decision based on consensus which we have been doing,” added Sangma.
He also mentioned how this has been the only party that has dared to take up serious issues.
Meanwhile, Danggo, a former five-time MLA, had quit the opposition Congress to join the NPP.
Sangma also informed that the party will be welcoming more leaders on Wednesday.
Congress MDC Fantin Lyngdoh, who is the spouse of Congress MLA Ampareen Lyngdoh, will be officially felicitated on Wednesday. Fantin had recently decided to join the NPP.
Also read: Numaligarh Refinery to manufacture ethanol out of bamboo