NPP reaches out to coalition partners for W’nagar polls

SHILLONG: Though the MDA coalition partners UDP and BJP have already put up candidates for the April 27 Williamnagar polls, NPP is reaching out to these two parties to have an understanding.
The poll was adjourned in Williamnagar following the death of NCP candidate Jonathone Sangma on February 18.
NCP has fielded Jonathone’s wife Krinilla Marak to contest the polls.
Though NCP is supporting the MDA government, the party is fighting the polls separately.
When asked about any understanding with the coalition partners to ensure the win of NPP candidate, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said talks were on. “We are discussing the matter on how to go about it,” he said.
There was no room for the contesting candidates to withdraw from the fray since the filing of nomination was only for the NCP candidate. The deadline for withdrawal was over for other candidates.
The NCP candidate did not opt out of the fray on Friday, the last day for withdrawal of nominations.
Other candidates in the fray are Deborah C Marak (Congress), Marcuise N Marak (NPP), Mahamsing M Sangma (UDP), Santhos R Marak (BJP) and four independents – Jan N Arengh, Lahatson N Marak, Sengbath R Marak and Siljong R Marak.
The campaign for the polls is yet to pick up due to the ongoing Budget session of the Assembly which will conclude on April 20.
Chief Electoral Officer Frederick Kharkongor said on Friday that a peaceful poll is expected in Williamnagar as law and order situation is normal.