SHILLONG: The State President of the National People’s Party (NPP) and Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Prestone Tynsong, on Tuesday, confirmed that the party will field its own candidate in the upcoming by-election to the Shillong Parliamentary Constituency.
Speaking to reporters, Tynsong said that while the party is currently focused on preparations for the GHADC elections, a decision on the parliamentary by-poll candidate will be taken after detailed internal discussions.
He revealed that several aspirants have shown interest in contesting the seat, but assured that the party leadership would carefully evaluate all options before finalising the most suitable candidate. “The NPP will definitely field its candidate in this by-election,” Tynsong asserted.
Emphasising that no election can be taken lightly, the Deputy Chief Minister said the party would work diligently to secure victory. He expressed confidence that voters would recognise the developmental initiatives undertaken by the government, adding that performance would ultimately speak louder than rhetoric.
Tynsong further stated that if the electorate extends its support, having an NPP Member of Parliament would ensure better coordination between the state government and the Centre. He highlighted key pending issues such as the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the inclusion of Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
According to him, an MP from the party would facilitate stronger follow-up on these long-pending demands, including the resolution on ILP already passed by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly.
With the by-election expected to draw significant political attention, the NPP’s announcement sets the stage for a multi-cornered contest in the Shillong Parliamentary Constituency.
