From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, Nov 1: In a major political setback for the National People’s Party, three senior leaders and nearly 200 grassroots members of the party in Nongpoh Block shifted their political allegiance to Congress.
This internal shift, seen as a political blow to a party that leads the state government, was marked by a joining ceremony on Friday in Sajer, Nongpoh.
The senior leaders from the Nongpoh constituency jumping ship include Minsing Makri, adviser of NPP Nongpoh Block; Stoin R Syngkli, working president; and Lawrence Nongrum, secretary.
Alongside these leaders, approximately two hundred representatives from various zones, circles and units within the constituency have also shifted their allegiance to Congress, highlighting growing disenchantment within the NPP’s local leadership.
An elated Congress welcomed the former NPP leaders warmly.
Ri-Bhoi District Congress Committee president, MG Kharshanlor, led the welcoming ceremony, who was joined by president of Meghalaya Pradesh Mahila Congress, Joplin Scott Lyngdoh; vice president of Ri-Bhoi District Congress Committee, Rocky A. Marwein; president of Nongpoh Block Congress Committee, SW Mallai; and adviser to Nongpoh Block Congress Committee, Rev PW Pnar, alongside other senior Congress members.
In their address, the three former NPP leaders shared their reasons for leaving, citing a persistent lack of recognition and respect from senior NPP leadership.
They expressed disappointment over the disregard shown to grassroots contributors, whose efforts, they argued, aim to foster community development.
Feeling unappreciated, they ultimately sought a more inclusive and committed political home.
The defectors also recalled their earlier association with the Congress under Dr. DD Lapang, a period they felt was genuinely dedicated to public service.
They expressed contentment at returning to a party, which they maintained, carries a legacy of championing the concerns of marginalised communities.
The former NPP leaders then pledged to strengthen Congress across Ri-Bhoi district.
Congress leaders, including Kharshanlor, Lyngdoh, and Marwein, expressed enthusiasm in welcoming the new members and acknowledged recent challenges, such as the departure of some MLAs.
They, however, affirmed that the party’s spirit remains resilient and continues to gain momentum.
With the upcoming Member of District Council (MDC) elections, Congress leaders emphasised their commitment to accepting new supporters from other parties across Ri-Bhoi district’s five constituencies.
They also aim to present a united front, increasing the party’s chances for success in the elections.