UDP steers clear of ‘scams’ in MDA govt

SHILLONG, Oct 23: United Democratic Party (UDP), the second-largest constituent in the MDA government, has distanced itself from the alleged scams and irregular activities that have come to the fore in the last five years.
The regional party is also not inclined to forge another alliance with the National People’s Party after the 2023 Assembly polls.
Speaking to The Shillong Times here on Sunday, UDP general secretary Jemino Mawthoh said his party will go alone in the polls. “An arrangement with NPP is unlikely as there is no pre-poll alliance,” he said.
“If we get more seats (than in 2018), an alliance with NPP will be out of the question,” he said.
Asked if the alleged scams would also dent the UDP’s position, Mawthoh answered in the negative. “The UDP is a minor partner in the MDA and we hardly make a difference due to the dominance of the larger party,” he said.
He insisted the UDP was vocal whenever any scam cropped up.
Asking the government to expedite the inquiries into various irregularities, Mawthoh said the UDP will not get anything if it shields anyone. “Many a time, UDP had to take the blame for the wrongs done by the government,” he added.
“People should realise who is at the helm of affairs and who is holding the baton,” he said, reiterating the UDP’s wish to form the government in 2023.