Tura, Jan 31: Two-time MLA from Mendipathar, Marthon J Sangma cited the lack of development in his home constituency as being the sole reason for him to join the Conrad Sangma led NPP as all the other North Garo Hills constituencies had progressed while his stood still.
“The decision was taken after very long consultations with my supporters and close family members who insisted that I join the NPP as it would get another chance to lead the state into development in 2023. Being an opposition MLA, you literally have very little funds to develop your area as you only have the MLA schemes to work with most of the time,” stated Marthon.
Marthon joined the NPP ranks a few months ago though only officially did so just after the announcement of the election.
“Every constituency in NGH (all led by NPP MLAs) has seen lots of development projects come to their corner. Kharkutta got roads, a stadium, a CHC among others while Bajengdoba also got a stadium, various road projects and overall development. The same was the case with Resubelpara. After I came onboard, the CM was happy to provide me with a few critical projects for my constituency. These are already being undertaken,” stated Marthon.
On his performance as an MLA, he asserted that he outperformed all the previous MLAs that represented the constituency.
“Look at the implementation of schemes performed by those before me. You will see many projects that are there on paper only whereas I have helped build more than 50 community halls, distributed 60 power tillers, provided 4 ambulances that are helping people in dire need. My predecessors cannot compare with me in achievement,” stressed the NPP leader.
Marthon felt the NPP was performing well in the Garo Hills region and the party was looking at achieving a single majority in the state.
“Our party’s chances are looking very good for a majority in the state. I am confident about my chances as I have performed well as an MLA despite being in the opposition most of time. Further all my competitors are new to the political field which will give us an added advantage,” felt Marthon.
The NPP contestant will face off against TMC’s Pardinand D Shira, Congress’ Timjim Momin, UDP’s Subroto Marak as well as a yet to be named BJP contestant. He felt the TMC and BJP would pose the biggest challenge to his representation of Mendipathar for a third time.