SHILLONG: As preparations intensify for the upcoming elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), senior NPP leader and Cabinet Minister Marquise N Marak today said the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) is set to contest all seats, while hinting that the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) may withdraw from the race.
Addressing the media, Marak claimed that the TMC, once a strong political force in the Garo Hills region, may not field any candidates in the upcoming polls.
“I am hearing that the TMC is not going to put up any candidates in this election. That is what I have been told, though it is their internal party matter,” he said.
The Minister further stated that he had been informed that TMC’s sitting MDCs may be directed to contest as Independent candidates instead of using the party’s symbol.
Responding to questions on whether the TMC had become a “sinking ship,” Marak maintained a cautious tone.
“A party is a party. They have had their time and their MLAs. We must wait and see who actually shows up on the battlefield,” he remarked.
While opposition strategies remain uncertain, Marak said the NPP is witnessing strong enthusiasm from aspiring candidates and is in the final stage of selecting nominees for all constituencies.
According to him, several seats have received overwhelming interest, with up to seven applicants seeking party tickets in some constituencies. Most candidates have already been shortlisted, though names are being kept confidential pending final consultations with party committees.
He added that the official list of NPP candidates is expected to be announced within the week.
With the TMC’s participation in doubt, Marak identified the Indian National Congress as the NPP’s principal challenger in the region.
“I would say that perhaps the Congress might be the next party to fight against us,” he said.
Reaffirming the party’s resolve, Marak said the NPP is committed to contesting all seats in the GHADC elections to retain public confidence and continue its developmental agenda in the Garo Hills.
