By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 4: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has announced that it will not field candidates in the upcoming elections to the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC), citing a lack of understanding of the party’s ideology and principles among the people of the Jaintia Hills region.
Addressing media persons after a party meeting on Saturday, KHNAM general secretary, James MA Neng, revealed that four to five individuals had sought party tickets to contest the elections.
“We feel it would not be the right move to field candidates for the JHADC election as the party has yet to establish its base in Jaintia Hills,” Neng said, appealing to the region’s residents to respect the party’s decision.
The KHNAM general secretary emphasised the importance of the district council elections, describing them as critical to preserving and protecting the rights, culture and traditions of the indigenous tribes of the state. “We are committed to ensuring that the district councils function as mandated by the Constitution,” he added.
Meanwhile, KHNAM working president, Thomas Passah, clarified that the party will not form any pre-poll alliances due to differences in ideology.
“As a party, we stand to protect the interests and rights of the indigenous tribes. Our agenda is distinct from other political parties,” Passah said, adding that the party will soon release its manifesto, highlighting key issues for its election campaign.
It may be recalled that on December 5, KHNAM announced its candidates for the KHADC elections scheduled for February 21. The eight candidates include Thomas Passah (Jaiaw), Joseph H Pyngrope (Sohrynkham), Pynshai Mawrie (Mawkynrew), Banplieborlang Mawroh (Langkyrdem-Laitkroh), Peter Challam (Laitumkhrah-Malki), Raymond Basaiawmoit (Mawkhar-Pynthorumkhrah), Lasuklang War (Shella) and Baristar Poul Thyrniang (Mawkyrwat).
