The APHLC-HSPDP unity talks have run into fresh difficulty. After protracted dilogues and consultations, when the preparatory committee of the two parties met on September 5 to take a final decision, it petered out to be another exercise in futility.
It all happened over a suggestion made by the former HSPDP Minister, Mr Endro Iawphniaw, that the proposed new party be ‘‘federal’’ in character allowing room for the constituent units to retain their own identities outside the super-party. Mr Iawphniaw’s proposal is believed to be enjoying the blessing of HSPDP President Mr Hopiogstone Lyngdoh.
However. the APHLC disapproved of the suggestion in no uncertain terms. The APHLC leaders said that they were surprised to find such a proposal “at this stage”, and were unwilling even to raise a a debate on the merit of the case. After a brief discussion, the HSPDP decided to resume its deliberatrons on September 25.
The APHLC members, on the other hand, decided to go ahead with its deliberations. Despite opposition from a senior leader of the party, the APHLC adopted a unanimous resolution reiterating its earlier stand to achieve unity by diasolving the two concerned parties.
Apparently, the HSPDP’s West Khasi Hills unit is dragging its feet because of the fear of losing its moorings. The party has an unquestionable following in this district. Thanks mainly to its President.
Reliable reports say that HSPDP leadership is sharply divided over the issue. Its urban-based vocal members have minced no word to express their displeasure at this volte-face of the party bosses. It is said that Mr Winston Syiemiong, former Speaker, Dr B. Pakem, a front ranking leader from Jaintia Hills, are among the party leaders who are intensely campaigning for an early amalgamation of the two premier state-based parties.
The issue has been hanging fire for a year-and-half since the ouster of MUPP Government in April last year. Although the two parties have time and again aired their views in favour of the move, there seems to be some lingering suspicion about the effect of it at the electoral battles. Over the months the two parties got the proposal ratified by their district units followed by approval of the respective highest executive bodies.