SHILLONG: The independent MDCs of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Tuesday added more muscle to the executive committee led by P.N Syiem.
The eight independents led by Latiplang Kharkongor formed the United Democratic Alliance on Tuesday with an aim to secure the EC.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday after a meeting with all Independent MDCs, chairman of the newly formed UDA Kharkongor said, “The purpose of the alliance is to unite the MDCs and prevent any attempt to topple the EC headed by KHADC CEM P.N Syiem. We will support the People’s Democratic Forum (PDF) coalition led by Syiem.”
Other members of the UDA are Matidor Lyngdoh (general secretary), Grace Kharpuri, LG Nongsiej, Morning Star Mawsor, Victor Rani, Hadrian Lyngdoh and James Sylliang.
Kharkongor said all attempts to oust Syiem proved futile as the HSPDP MDCs and the lone NCP Council member from Laban have extended support to the PDF coalition.
Alleging that the Congress sent feelers to the Independent MDCs to topple the current EC, Kharkongor said, “The Congress will continue to do so but all Independent MDCs have faith in the leadership role of Syiem.”
Refuting former KHADC CEM H.S Shylla’s claim that UDP is the single largest party in the District Council, Victor Rani said, “The alliance of the Independent MDCs have emerged as the largest party in the KHADC.”