MDA partners want unity despite differences

SHILLONG: With the discussion of MDA partners on the common candidate on Monday remaining inconclusive, the partners in the coalition said efforts will be made to iron out the differences.
UDP leader Bindo Lanong said on Tuesday that the differences over common candidate should not come in the way of the unity of the MDA coalition and efforts will be made so that the government lasts its full term.
While the UDP is keen to contest from Shillong parliamentary seat, the BJP local units in Tura and Shillong want to contest both the Shillong and Tura seats.
BJP leader and Cabinet Minister AL Hek said though the wish of the party is to contest the twin seats, the Central leaders will assess the situation before deciding on the matter.
He also said there will not be any problem for the unity of the MDA over the Lok Sabha polls.
Lanong reminded that in the UDP meeting held on Saturday in North Garo Hills, he had made it clear that retaining the government is more important than fighting for the two seats.
“Let us keep in mind that the MDA completes its full term”, he said.
According to Lanong, the party desires that NPP should fight in Tura and the UDP with the support of regional partners should set up a candidate in Shillong.
He said the UDP will hold dialogue with likeminded parties like KHNAM, PDF and HSPDP.
“Our intention is to strengthen MDA and there should not be any infighting and if there are any differences, they can be solved through dialogue”, he said.
According to Lanong, the MDA should fight the Lok Sabha polls without any discord.
Asked about BJP’s plan to field candidates, Lanong said since the BJP is a national party, the regional parties cannot comment on the affairs of that party.