John Leslee blames money power for defeat

TURA: Former MLA and independent candidate John Leslee K Sangma has blamed money power for his defeat and said he would consult his supporters on quitting politics.
In a statement to the media, the former MLA – while terming the contest a “good fight” for himself and Independent Chris Kabul A Sangma for having fought against a sitting chief minister and a former CM (Mukul Sangma) whose candidate was in the fray – said he expects the new representative to work for the people in a positive way.
On his retirement from politics, John Leslee said, “Regarding the issue… which appeared in the media, it is my personal feeling and desire but I still have to consult my supporters.”
He said he was saddened by the new era of politics where issues of public importance took a back seat and money played a major role in many of the localities.
“It is an open secret that huge amount of money was distributed everywhere and people flocked to the residences of workers and leaders for such handouts during the general election and by-election,” alleged John Leslee who faced defeat a second time in six months from a constituency he represented in 2013.
“My congratulations to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and my gratefulness to those who voted for me and took a stand to say that they don’t subscribe to the stand of Conrad Sangma regarding the job reservation policy and his stand on issuing work permit to Bangladeshis. I hope the problem at NEIGRIHMS regarding Garo MBBS candidate will be sorted out soon,” he added.