Our Bureau
SHILLONG, Sep 16: Finally breaking his silence on the seat-sharing pact in the BJP, outgoing minister Alexander Laloo Hek on Tuesday confirmed that the BJP had agreed to share its lone berth between its two legislators.
He broke his silence only after completing his tenure of two and half years and handing over the baton to Shullai.
This admission is significant as sections of the BJP state leadership had previously dismissed the existence of such a pact, even as Shullai continued to express confidence in his turn in the cabinet.
Hek clarified that the agreement was not on paper and lacked the formal backing of the central leadership. He also expressed hope that a BJP-led government would come in 2028.
With Hek’s disclosure, the veil of uncertainty over the BJP’s internal understanding has finally been lifted, paving the way for Shullai to represent the party in the cabinet for the remainder of the government’s term.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh termed his tenure as one of transformation, pointing to achievements such as the Rs 175 crore Shillong Ropeway Project, the pedestrianisation of Khyndai Lad after years of effort, and the relocation of hawkers to better facilities. He recalled initiatives like providing mobile phones to anganwadi workers and described himself as “blessed to have been able to be the changemaker, bringing in positive development.”
Outgoing Food and Civil Supplies Minister Comingone Ymbon chose to highlight continuity and optimism, expressing gratitude for the Chief Minister’s decision to grant ministership to new faces so they could work for the state’s betterment.
For outgoing Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, the reshuffle was no surprise, as they were told before the beginning of their tenure as cabinet ministers that it would be for two and a half years only. He urged the new inductees to “give their best in their service to the people and the state.”
The departing ministers have sought to term their exits not as setbacks but as part of a cycle of responsibility, leaving behind projects they hope will outlast their tenures.
In contrast, the newly sworn-in ministers started their innings with several promises, highlighting the importance of unity within the ruling alliance.
UDP president and Mairang MLA, Metbah Lyngdoh, emphasised the need for unity within the ruling alliance and continued the journey of the MDA 2.0.
Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla placed youth issues at the centre of his agenda, but said the specifics depended on his portfolio. When asked whether he was likely to get Youth Affairs and Sports, Shylla quoted the CM and said everything would be clear after the swearing-in.
He dismissed suggestions that his entry was influenced by his brother-in-law and Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar.
He expressed gratitude to the CM and the Deputy Chief Ministers for giving him this opportunity and announced to donate his first month’s salary to seven orphanages in West Jaintia Hills.
Amlarem MLA Lahkmen Rymbui prioritised service over position, stating that any position held is the same for him. He also expressed his commitment to serving the people and ensuring that the limited time left in the government’s term is not seen as a hurdle.
Mawshynrut MLA Methodius Dkhar stated that the party will focus on the border issue, including the inclusion of Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule, and the demand for ILP since the beginning.
He expressed gratitude to the people of West Khasi Hills and hoped that his induction will inspire many people, particularly those from Mawshynrut constituency, and all HSPDP supporters.
Dkhar also expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Shakliar Warjri, for gracefully paving the way for him in the cabinet and wishing him all the best.