MPCC asked to finalise probables by Oct 15
SHILLONG: The AICC has asked Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to send the names of aspirants, who wish to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, by October 15.
A State Congress on Saturday source said that Congress leadership in Delhi wanted MPCC to send the names by October 15 so that the AICC could select the candidate for Shillong seat at the earliest.
According to initial reports, besides sitting MP Vincent Pala, some other names including former MPCC president OL Nongtdu, former Assembly Speaker Charles Pyngrope and Congress member John Kharshiing are currently doing the rounds.
Though the sitting MP is likely to be preferred by the Congress High Command, his winning chances will depend on his party legislators.
Some legislators are not happy with Pala for his alleged interference during the State Assembly elections resulting in the defeat of Congress candidates in some constituencies.
Pyngrope, who was defeated in the Assembly elections, is also looking for the Delhi assignment.
Nongtdu, a former Rajya Sabha MP, is another option before the State Congress, while the new entrant to the party, Kharshiing is also keen to get the party ticket.
The meeting of the MPCC will take place shortly to finalise its choice.
Though the MPCC was left with the task of recommending the suitable name, Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma will play a big role in the selection process.
According to sources, Pala is unlikely to get the backing of Chief Minister due to the former’s alleged negative role in the last Assembly elections.