TURA, Feb 25: In a major development on Friday, Babelapara MDC and Chief Executive Member of Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, Rakesh A Sangma is likely to resign from his post following widespread protests over his elevation.
While the resignation of Rakesh has not been announced officially, there are reports that he would step down on Monday and pave way for election of a new CEM from among the coalition members.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, an MDC from the ruling NPP-led coalition confirmed the development but declined to accept full responsibility for the authenticity of the news.
“A meeting will be held tomorrow (February 26) as some MDCs are yet to be consulted. He is most likely to resign on Monday but nothing can be fully confirmed as of now. We will have to wait until tomorrow when an announcement is expected,” the MDC said.
Earlier on Friday, protests seeking the Rakesh’s ouster took place in Williamnagar where many residents led by the pressure groups rallied on the streets. Following the rally, effigies of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and the CEM as well as other supporting MDCs were burnt.
In spite of the unconfirmed reports, there was jubilation among the protesting groups. But since there was no official confirmation of the decision, they decided to continue with their protests and announced a rally in Tura on Monday, unless the situation changes in their favour in the next 48 hours.