SHILLONG: The Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) has confirmed that it will convene a crucial meeting after the ongoing Budget Session to finalise its candidate for the upcoming Shillong Parliamentary by-election.
Party President Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit said the decision would be taken only after detailed consultations within the party, stressing that the leadership is currently focused on legislative responsibilities.
The Shillong Lok Sabha seat fell vacant following the sudden demise of sitting MP Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon on February 19, 2026, triggering the need for a by-election.
Speaking to reporters, Basaiawmoit said the party is still observing a period of mourning while balancing its role in governance.
“As of now, we are still in the mourning period. During the Assembly session, our priority is the Budget Session. After that, party leaders will meet and discuss this matter,” he said.
Political speculation has intensified over whether the VPP may field a member of the late MP’s family to continue his political legacy. However, the party leadership has refrained from making any commitment.
“We cannot say anything at this stage without proper discussion within the party,” Basaiawmoit said, adding that all decisions would be taken collectively.
The upcoming by-election is considered crucial for the VPP, which registered a major political breakthrough in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections when Syngkon defeated veteran Congress leader Vincent Pala of the Indian National Congress.
The victory marked the party’s emergence as a major political force in Meghalaya, particularly in the Shillong parliamentary constituency.
Political observers say retaining the seat will be key to sustaining the VPP’s momentum and strengthening its position ahead of future elections.
Syngkon’s untimely death at the age of 54, reportedly while playing futsal, has created a significant void in Shillong’s representation at the national level.
As the Budget Session nears its conclusion, the VPP’s proposed post-session meeting is expected to shape the political narrative surrounding the by-election and determine the party’s future course.
The party leadership has maintained that transparency, internal consultation, and respect for public sentiment will guide its decision-making process.
