SHILLONG: The United Democratic Party (UDP) is on the brink of collapse in Meghalaya after three of its remaining legislators—senior leader Paul Lyngdoh (West Shillong), Nujorki Sungoh (Mookaiaw), and Renikton L Tongkhar (Mawkyrwat)—formally notified Speaker Thomas A. Sangma of their decision to merge with the ruling National People’s Party (NPP).
The move, accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, leaves UDP President Metbah Lyngdoh as the party’s only remaining MLA.
The merger, following earlier defections to the BJP, boosts the NPP-led coalition’s strength to 36 MLAs.
The Speaker’s approval is pending, with one more UDP MLA, Nujorki Tariang, set to join upon recovery from illness.
Deputy CM Tynsong emphasized that the merger involved no pre-conditions or material promises, describing it as a voluntary decision by the MLAs to support a more effective platform for governance.
Paul Lyngdoh said the move was made independently, with no animosity toward the UDP, and that future portfolios are at the Chief Minister’s discretion.
Renikton L Tongkhar cited the current government’s performance and his constituents’ aspirations as reasons for the switch.
The coalition now awaits the Speaker’s ruling, with the official joining ceremony to be announced soon.
(4FrontMedia news)
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