E K Mawlong’s son back in politics

SHILLONG: After the dissolution of Umroi Block Congress Committee (UBCC) last month under the leadership of MLA Ngaitlang Dhar, Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has appointed George Lyngdoh as UBCC’s president.
George is the son of former Chief Minister E.K. Mawlong. In February 2009, George, who was with UDP, had unsuccessfully contested the bye-election to Umroi seat following the death of his father in October 2008. Congress candidate Stanlywiss Rymbai was elected then.
However, on December 15, 2011 George resigned from the post of president of UDP, Umroi circle and also from the primary leadership of the party citing personal reasons.
Informing this, Cabinet Minister and Ri Bhoi District President, Celestine Lyngdoh said that it all depends on the MPCC for the induction of new leaders.
“However, as for now, George Lyngdoh is the new president of Umroi Block Congress Committee,” he said.
It is learnt that the party may prepare George as the candidate to take on Dhar in 2018.
When asked on probable candidates from Congress, Celestine said, “The Congress party has issued a circular that forms will be made available from August 31 to those who want to contest elections.”
Commenting on speculations that some legislators are planning to quit Congress, he said, “The party has standby candidates who are willing to contest.”
As for the performance of Congress in Ri-Bhoi, he said, “Prospect of Congress is very good in Ri-Bhoi for the elections. There is no alternative except Congress.”