By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 12: KHADC MDC from Nongthymmai, Latiplang Kharkongor breathed his last at Shillong Civil Hospital on Thursday evening after prolonged illness. He was 54.
The former CEM was first elected as an MDC in 2004. Before joining politics, he was the president of Hynniewtrep National Youth Front.
Kharkongor was also the first president of Seng Samla of Dorbar Shnong Nongkhyriem.
He had etched his name in history by becoming the first independent MDC to be elected as CEM in November 2019.
Kharkongor’s tenure as the CEM was not a smooth one as there was political instability soon after. He held on to the chair for only three months after which Governor’s Rule was imposed.
KHADC CEM, Pyniaid Sing Syiem condole Kharkongor’s demise.
Syiem said the KHADC will observe a half-holiday on Friday as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
The KHADC CEM said people had great faith in Kharkongor as they elected him to the council four times in a row.
“The council as a whole would like to send its condolences to his wife, children and all his family members,” the KHADC CEM added.
Leader of Opposition, Titosstarwell Chyne also condole his demise.
Terming the late Nongthymmai MDC as a man of principle, Chyne said, “It is great loss for the council since we lost two senior MDCs (including Teinwell Dkhar) in the past few months.”
He said Kharkongor will be best remembered for his efforts to streamline the process of issuing of trading licences during his tenure as the EM in charge of Trade.
“I would like to send my condolences to the family members of Kharkongor,” Chyne added.