Speculation stronger as Mayralborn, Renikton, Shitlang attend UDP event

SHILLONG, Sep 10: Suspended Congress MLA Mayralborn Syiem, Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) MLA and Cabinet minister Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar and Trinamool Congress MLA Shitlang Pale attended the 25th foundation day celebration and office inauguration of the United Democratic Party (UDP) as special invitees on Saturday, strengthening the speculation that they will jump ship ahead of Assembly elections due early next year.
During his interaction with reporters, Tongkhar did not confirm if he is UDP-bound.
“Whatever party I will be joining, it will be revealed on time. Party comes second; the Jaitbynriew comes first,” he said.
Claiming that the UDP has tremendously grown in strength and its achievement now is like never before, he said, “The people want to see only one strong regional party in the state and I wish the strongest regional party makes it in the 2023 election”.
To a query, Tongkhar said he had won the 2018 elections due to the HSPDP as well as the UDP and he has given back his service to both parties.
Stating that the people of Mawkyrwat have reposed their faith in him again, he exuded confidence he will retain the seat.
The HSPDP has already announced that Medalson Lyngdoh Tongkhar will be its Mawkyrwat candidate.
Reports suggest the three MLAs in question and also suspended Congress legislator PT Sawkmie will join the UDP just ahead of the polls to avoid being caught in the anti-defection law.