NONGPOH: A prominent businessman from Ri Bhoi, who was eyeing a Congress ticket from Jirang constituency, has decided to contest even if he is denied ticket by the national party.
Ticket aspirant Badhok Nongmalieh, while speaking at a function after laying the foundation stone of Western Ri Bhoi College at Patharkhmah on Tuesday, said, “Though ticket is yet to be declared, I have decided to contest the elections. I want to bring about change in the constituency in terms of overall development, including healthcare, education and better road connectivity.”
Besides Nongmalieh, two others, Witness Syngkli and Sarita Laitphlang, are also vying for a Congress ticket.
Nongmalieh is the only contender whose name was recommended by the primary units, polling booths and the Jirang Block Congress Committee.
Prominent leaders of Western Jirang and governing body members present at the function lauded Nongmalieh for his “vision and generous contributions”, like the college.
“As most of the people of Western Jirang are poor, it is difficult for them to send their children to Nongpoh or Shillong for higher studies. The new college will be a blessing to the young generation,” one of the leaders said.
The ticket aspirant has also donated two ambulances in the last few weeks.