JOWAI: Awhoi Andrew Shullai became the 26th chief executive member of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) on Wednesday.
The 35-year-old MDC from Jowai Central was elected uncontested during a special House session attended by 30 members.
Among those who wished Shullai on his election was outgoing CEM Thombor Shiwat who, in his farewell speech, flagged a number of issues, including financial crisis, ailing the council.
Shullai, who is the son of social worker and physician JN Shullai, said his topmost priority was to improve the financial position of the council.
“I never dreamt to become politician but have always wished to serve people. I will serve all members and the people equally,” he added.
Shullai studied in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore between 1998 and 2008. He came back to Meghalaya in 2008 and got married.
In 2014, he contested the district council election and created history as he won by way of toss.
After the 2014 JHADC polls, there was a tie between Congress candidate Shullai and his nearest UDP rival Kitboklang Nongtdu when both polled equal number of votes.
The returning officer chose the winner through a lucky draw.
Meanwhile, Shiwat in his speech said he has done his best but “the higher command found me not fit anymore”.
Pointing out the problems in JHADC, Shiwat said, “The council is facing acute shortage of funds and for the last two months, the staff have not received salary and I hope that the new CEM will solve the problems.”
The former CEM has also blamed the state government for not releasing JHADC’s share of royalty for both minor and major minerals.
