PDF begins poll campaign from South West Khasi Hills

MAWKYRWAT: The newly formed People’s Democratic Front (PDF) kick started its election campaign here on Saturday with a rally at Rangblang Sohsyniang village.
Addressing a gathering of thousands of villagers, PDF’s chief ministerial candidate PN Syiem said the state needs leaders who love the people more than the ‘luxurious chair’.
While referring to the loss of power by the headmen in Khasi-Jaintia Hills, he expressed his disappointment that the indigenous people in the state and their customs and traditions were not safe.
“We need leaders who understand the need of people and who protect the custom and tradition,” Syiem said, adding that a law is needed to protect tribal rights successive governments have failed to do so.
Syiem criticised the Mukul Sangma-led government saying that it has failed on all fronts and called for support to PDF candidate from Mawkyrwat Hadrian Lyngdoh. He also expressed hope that PDF will win many seats and come to power “because people want to see change”.
Others who spoke include PDF Mawkyrwat president YG Lyngdoh, general secretary of the central body Auspicious L Mawphlang and former MDC from Nongstoin Nondy Diengngan, among others.