Speculations rife over probable winners
NONGSTOIN: With polling day just round the corner and campaigns by candidates going on in full swing, there is much speculation over the probable winners from the respective district council constituencies in West Khasi Hills.
As many as 16 candidates are in the fray in the three district council constituencies of Rambrai-Jyrngam, Mairang-Nongkhlaw and Pariong-Mawthadraishan in West Khasi Hills going to the by-polls on December 13.
While political observers are a confused lot this time round with mostly new faces contesting, all the respective parties in contention are hopeful of emerging victorious. To start with, political observers have given a slight advantage to the UDP to retain power in Mairang-Nongkhlaw. However, a triangular contest is on the cards among the party’s candidate Equator Nongrang, BJP’s Counsellor Sing Wahlang and Lambok Nongrang (Congress).
From Pariong-Mawthadraishan Blanding Warjri of the HSPDP has an edge over UDP’s Janbor War, say political experts.
From Rambrai-Jyrngam constituency, World Champion Paliar of the HSPDP is being termed as a favourite for now. However, it is too early to rule out the experienced Kimfa Sidney Marbaniang who is expected to put up a tough fight. But analysts feel that Paliar might emerge victorious with the “blessing of legislator K P Pangniang.
In Rambrai-Jyrngam, more than 25,000 people will cast their votes on December 13. 6000-strong Garo voters will also play a crucial role in the outcome of the poll.
When contacted Pangniang claimed that the Garo voters have faith in the HSPDP and will vote en masse for the party.