SHILLONG: NPP leaders from Manipur have portrayed Conrad K Sangma as the “pan-North East” leader who is not only bringing together the states in the region but also bridging the gap that it has with the central leadership.
Manipur’s Health Minister Jayantakumar Singh and Sports Minister Letpao Haokip, who were in South Tura on Friday to campaign for Conrad for the August 23 by-poll, said, “Conrad Sangma ji has successfully positioned the party across North East and in different parts of the country.
He is working very hard to fructify the vision and foundation of NPP laid by late Purno Sangma ji.”
Haokip said leaders from different political parties in the region look up to Conrad for his guidance and leadership.
Calling him a “pan-North East” leader, the Manipur minister said, “He is a leader of the minority and the Christian community. He is our voice in New Delhi. We believe in him and his able leadership to guide us.”
A delegation of youth leaders from Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur is also in Tura and has been campaigning in different pockets of the constituency.
As the Manipur leaders drummed up support for Conrad, for whom the by-poll is crucial to keep the chief minister’s chair, in Ranikor, the NPP senior leaders intensified campaign for Martin M Danggo.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tyngsong addressed a gathering at Nongnah in South West Khasi Hills.
Tynsong focused on tourism development, which was the previous government’s highlight too, and said it would help generate jobs and improve livelihoods.
“South West Khasi has a huge potential in tourism and with the construction of new roads under schemes brought about by the MDA government under the leadership of Conrad Sangma, Ranikor can become a tourist hub in the near future,” he added.
The rally was also attended by Sniawbhalang Dhar, MDC Pyniaid S. Syiem and NPP district president Kitborlang Nongrem, among others.
Billykid campaigns
Billykid A. Sangma, former MLA of Tura is also accompanying Conrad Sangma in different meetings to give testimony of his leadership.
“My supporters wanted me to contest the byelection but I decided not to contest because I am satisfied with the leadership of Conrad Sangma. When we have a readymade Chief Minister, who is contesting for South Tura constituency there is no need for me to contest.”
