By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 26: Breaking the silence after prolonged speculation over leadership change sentiment within the Congress, Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Vincent H Pala has made it clear that he will not step down under pressure from external forces.
Speaking to The Shillong Times on Sunday, Pala asserted that he would not be swayed by “external forces” or political opponents attempting to destabilise the Congress.
“There are people aligned with Team A or Team B of certain political opponents who are making noise that I should be removed. They are unhappy because I am not a leader they can buy,” Pala said.
“As long as I am here, no outside force can influence the grand-old party,” he added.
The MPCC chief emphasised his commitment to ensuring that the Congress remains an independent political force and continues to raise issues that affect the people of the state.
Pala also clarified that the party has a clear and structured internal process for electing or removing leaders. “I will listen only to the directives of the party’s central leadership,” he stated, adding that leadership matters will be discussed internally and resolved amicably.
Dismissing media reports suggesting an imminent leadership change, Pala maintained that no formal discussions have taken place within the party regarding his removal.
“If every leader had to resign after losing elections, there would be no one left in the party,” he remarked.
He also dismissed rumours of a rift with former MLA Pynshngain Syiem, describing him as “an asset and a friend.”
Pala further added that the Congress is in the process of reorganising its state structure and has already begun preparations for the upcoming Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections.
Meanwhile, party sources acknowledged growing internal discontent.
Several senior leaders, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that a leadership overhaul may be necessary if the Congress hopes to revive its fortunes in Meghalaya.
Earlier, several party leaders had anonymously stated that the demand for change is widely shared among party workers and supporters.
They had even claimed that the All India Congress Committee (AICC) has already shortlisted four potential candidates — two from Khasi-Jaintia Hills and two from Garo Hills — to replace Pala.
