SHILLONG: Former Minister and Working President of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Paul Lyngdoh, on Thursday clarified that he has no intention of contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha (MP) election, stating that he would politely decline any proposal from his party to enter the parliamentary race.
Speaking to reporters about the current political developments in Meghalaya, Lyngdoh said his priority remains the development of the state and fulfilling his responsibilities as the MLA from West Shillong.
Lyngdoh emphasised that his current focus is entirely on state governance and addressing pending developmental issues in Meghalaya.
“I would politely decline any request from the party to contest the MP elections. My entire focus at this moment is on governance within the state of Meghalaya, as I feel there is a clear gap of capable leaders needed to lead the state forward,” he said.
He added that while the party has many capable leaders who could contest elections, he intends to honour the mandate given by the people of West Shillong and complete the five-year term he committed to as an MLA.
On GHADC Elections
Responding to queries about the upcoming election to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), Lyngdoh said that the party has not yet taken a final decision.
He explained that he currently does not have detailed information on the matter as the party has not convened a meeting to deliberate on the issue. Lyngdoh also noted that he has been occupied with the Budget Session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and his responsibilities in the Social Welfare Department.
“We cannot say anything yet because the party still needs to deliberate on it,” he added.
