SHILLONG: Following his recent swearing-in as a cabinet minister in the MDA II government, Paul Lyngdoh clarified that he did not lobby for any specific portfolio.
He revealed that Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma requested him to take charge of the tourism department to maintain continuity across ongoing initiatives, a proposal he readily accepted while acknowledging that current challenges require a balanced approach combining dialogue with firmness.
Lyngdoh had previously held the tourism portfolio before stepping down during a cabinet reshuffle on September 16, 2025, which saw Metbah Lyngdoh and Lahkmen Rymbui inducted into the ministry.
He made his comeback to the cabinet following the resignation of the UDP president Metbah Lyngdoh from his ministerial post on October 31, 2026.
Detailing his immediate roadmap, the minister announced plans to hold high-level review meetings with top department officials within days.
He emphasized that Meghalaya possesses immense tourism potential anchored by key projects crucial to elevating the state’s stature, adding that there will be no room for compromise on these developments.
Turning to security concerns in the wake of recent daylight crimes, Lyngdoh stated that a series of strategic measures are being lined up to safeguard both tourists and local residents.
He noted that while planning was well underway last year, the sudden change in leadership necessitated a fresh assessment of the ground reality after a gap of more than a year.
Regarding social welfare, he maintained that formal directives had not yet been finalized and further details would be shared shortly.
Addressing questions about whether political pressure forced Metbah Lyngdoh’s exit to clear space for his return, Lyngdoh asserted that those developments took place within the Chief Minister’s Secretariat and he remained unaware of those specifics.
Defending his political stance, he remarked that his goal has always been to wield power effectively to drive positive change rather than merely hold an office.
Pointing to his extensive background—spanning four election victories, six cabinet terms, and deep familiarity with the Constitution, legislative rules, and Autonomous District Council functions—Lyngdoh expressed full confidence in his capability to navigate any crisis.
(4FrontMedia news)
ALSO READ: UDP never truly deserved Bah Paul Lyngdoh
