By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 1: With the tenure of National People’s Party (NPP) Rajya Sabha MP Wanwei Roy Kharlukhi set to end on June 21, internal discussions within the party have reportedly intensified over the choice of nominee for Meghalaya’s lone Upper House seat. The deliberations have sparked quiet rumblings, particularly along regional lines.
Party sources indicate that a section of NPP MLAs from the Khasi and Jaintia Hills regions are advocating strongly for a Khasi leader to succeed Kharlukhi. Several leaders, speaking anonymously, emphasised that the central leadership should prioritise regional representation when finalising the candidate to maintain balance within the party.
Informal talks have already begun among the NPP’s rank and file, with multiple names surfacing as potential contenders. Political observers suggest that these emerging preferences from the Khasi and Jaintia Hills could challenge internal unity, especially regarding acceptance among leaders from the Garo Hills region.
The speculation intensified after former Home Minister and NPP spokesperson James P.K. Sangma publicly expressed his willingness to represent Meghalaya in the Rajya Sabha. He stated he would feel honoured if the party leadership and the people of the state deem him suitable. However, Sangma described the current discussions as premature, noting that Kharlukhi’s term has not yet concluded. “At this stage, it is only speculation. The decision rests entirely with the party leadership. If the party entrusts me with any responsibility, I am willing to accept whatever assignment it deems fit,” he said.
Kharlukhi has clearly stated his intention not to seek a second term, expressing a desire to retire from active parliamentary politics and pave the way for younger leaders. This announcement has further fuelled discussions within political circles.
Other names in the conversation include senior NPP leader and former Tura MP Agatha K. Sangma, who has emerged as a possible contender in some reports. However, she has previously ruled out any personal ambition to contest the Rajya Sabha seat, reiterating that the final call lies with the party leadership.
As the June deadline approaches, the NPP high command is expected to deliberate on the nominee over the coming months. Senior party figures continue to stress that no formal decision has been taken yet, and the process will be guided by collective leadership considerations.
The outcome of these internal dynamics will be closely watched, as it could influence the NPP’s broader strategy and regional equilibrium ahead of future electoral challenges in Meghalaya.
