From Our Correspondent
TURA: Conrad K Sangma has said the overwhelming endorsement of his candidature by the electorate of South Tura in this election “has further strengthened the commitment of my government to do everything possible to take the state to greater heights”.
Terming it as the victory of people, Conrad said as the new legislator of the constituency, his first priority would be to ensure infrastructure development.
Speaking to The Shillong Times shortly after declaration of the result, the chief minister said, “Our MDA government’s commitment to the development of the state has been further strengthened with this victory. I want to reassure the people that we will continue to do everything possible to take our state and our people forward.”
As executive head of the state and legislator of the most prestigious urban constituency in the Garo Hills, Conrad termed it as two different responsibilities.
“As the chief minister I have to take the state forward and ensure the policies are correct and benefit people. At the same time, as the MLA of Tura, I need to address the burning issues affecting the constituency and its people. Core infrastructure development, specially roads, drinking water supply, garbage disposal, street lighting will be my main agenda. Issues affecting each locality will need to be addressed,” said Conrad.
‘Congress misinterpreted my intentions’
The chief minister urged his party workers and supporters to desist from criticising and ridiculing their political opponents and their candidates.
Speaking about the ‘negative’ campaign launched against him by his opponents on the issue of job reservation and work permits to Bangladeshis during the by-elections, the chief minister said, “The Congress had misquoted and misunderstood my intentions.”
During the campaign, both Congress candidate Charlotte W Momin and Independent John Leslee K Sangma had made the two issues the focus of their campaign against the chief minister.
“I am appealing to everyone to avoid criticising their opponents. Elections are over and it is time for us to have a clean start. I welcome all my opponents to join hands and work together for our state,” said Conrad while addressing hundreds of supporters outside his house at Walbakgre after the results were announced on Monday afternoon.
Mentioning about his willingness to listen and learn, the chief minister said suggestions and advice from the people would always be welcomed.
“I may be the chief minister but I will remain a brother, a son, a friend,” said Conrad.