UDP says huge turnout in rallies not an indicator of poll outcome

SHILLONG, April 30: The UDP does not believe that a huge turnout in election rallies can determine the outcome of the polls.
“Huge crowd of people turning up for political campaigns is not enough to win elections. We need a minimum of 2.5 lakh votes to win the elections. No one can say that the large turnout at political campaigns means they are winning,” Cabinet Minister and UDP leader from Khliehriat constituency, Kyrmen Shylla said on Tuesday while referring to the VPP’s claim of winning the Shillong Lok Sabha seat.
Shylla said, “Though many people could not join us in rallies but they do love us and we believe that their love will give us strength in the future to fight more elections.”
Speaking about the UDP’s poll prospects, he said it would be difficult to predict the outcome. “I believe whoever wins the election will be able to do so only on the basis of the work they have done for the people,” he added.
“Winning or losing is not in our hands but we have tried hard. All our MLAs have given their hundred per cent but in the end the public will choose and who and why is very difficult to predict.”
Shylla also made it clear that political parties may bombard the public with tall claims, postures and promises but eventually the deciding factor rests with the public.
“Political parties may try different strategies to get public support but I feel personally that our people cannot be fooled by fake promises,” Shylla said.
Replying to a query on the VPP’s “holier than thou” stand, he said, “People know who failed whom and who contributed to the state.”