By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Despite the merger of the erstwhile political party Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) with the United Democratic Party (UDP) the fringe elements of the KHNAM under the leadership of Pyndap Saiborne is planning to field 10 to 15 candidates in the Assembly elections scheduled for early next year.
Saiborne who has taken over the split version of the KHNAM as its president said on Monday that he would contest from Mawlai constituency.
Saiborne had contested the last elections to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council from Mawlai constituency.
He said that the announcement of the candidates from his party would be made soon.
“We are strong and there is a significant presence of KHNAM in many constituencies,” Saiborne said.
Former KHNAM president and Jaiaw legislator Paul Lyngdoh and his supporters had officially merged with the UDP on December 12 last year but the rebel KHNAM members said that this has not dented the image of the original KHNAM.
“We are still a registered party with the Election Commission of India and we are expecting a written assurance from the Commission in this regard next week,” Saiborne said.
According to the KHNAM leader, the party still has a sizeable following in the constituencies of Shella, Mawlai, Mawsynram, Pynursla, Shillong North and Nongthymmai.
He also indicated that some sitting legislators and members of district councils would also join the truncated KHNAM ahead of the Assembly elections.
KHNAM is also planning to form a committee to frame its election manifesto.
Is Paul still in KHNAM?
Interestingly, the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly website says that Paul Lyngdoh is still with KHNAM.
The website www.meg-assembly.gov.in which updates every political development has not mentioned that Lyngdoh is now with UDP. The number of UDP legislators shown in the website is nine and not ten as it excluded Lyngdoh.