SHILLONG: While UDP and HSPDP is euphoric about the pre-poll alliance aimed at securing power in 2018 polls, veteran political leader SD Khongwir recollected a similar arrangement in 1983 by APHLC and HSPDP which, however, did not last.
Speaking to The Shillong Times on Thursday, Khongwir said in 1983, there was a unity meet at Khasi National Durbar hall with high expectations and later the government was formed with the support of both the parties having 31 MLAs in the House of 60. BB Lyngdoh of APHLC was the chief minister then. “However, the government lasted only for 25 days,” Khongwir who was part of the ministry recollected.
Subsequently, Congress under the leadership of Capt WA Sangma formed the government.
Later, 11 members from these two regional political parties came out and formed the Hill People’s Union (HPU).
UDP was formed by a breakaway group of HPU.
