Ex-kickboxer in LS poll race as independent

SHILLONG: Former kickboxer Samuel Hashah will contest the Lok Sabha election as an independent candidate from Shillong parliamentary constituency.
Hashah will face former legislator Jemino Mawthoh and MP Vincent Pala. When reporters asked Hashah during a press conference on Friday about him contesting against seasoned politicians, he said, “An elephant should not underestimate an ant. I have my own role to play. No one has the right to underestimate anyone.”
Stating that he believes in “no muscle power, no money power, only love power,” Hashah said, “I hope people will show their love as people understand there is a need for change. I hope to reach the goal.”
Hashah listed a few shortcomings in the state which he would highlight in Parliament. The issues are inter-state and international border disputes with Assam and Bangladesh, respectively.
He flagged a number of issues like the increase in dropouts, poor road connectivity, water scarcity, problems of electricity, threat to secularism in India, absence of sports policy in the state, lack of jobs and agricultural problems and called for improvement in the state’s tourism infrastructure.
Referring to issues affecting the indigenous community, the former sportsperson said he extended support for the incorporation of Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. He also spoke about safeguarding trade and commerce of the indigenous people.