By Our Reporter
Shillong, Feb 7: Mynjurlang Jyrwa, the Acting Chief of Hima Sohra, on Saturday said that all efforts would be made to expedite the appointment of a full-fledged Syiem through close coordination with the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), stressing that the absence of a traditional head continues to hamper effective governance of the Hima.
Jyrwa had recently held a crucial Dorbar as uncertainty over the Syiem’s appointment continued.
The KHADC has so far withheld formal approval (sanad) for Marremdor Syiem, despite his selection by the Dorbar Hima, citing procedural irregularities in the selection process.
Jyrwa was appointed Acting Chief by the KHADC to manage the affairs of Hima Sohra after the council declined to issue the sanad to Marremdor Syiem.
The Acting Chief clarified that the Dorbar Hima had earlier approved Marremdor Syiem’s selection and that he himself had participated in that process. However, he noted that the KHADC was not fully satisfied with the procedure, which resulted in the delay in granting official recognition.
He said the primary objective of the Dorbar was to formally place on record the sanad issued by the KHADC appointing him as Acting Chief and to announce the constitution of the Hima’s administrative body.
The Dorbar approved the appointment of eight Executive Members and twelve Myntris to assist in the day-to-day administration of the Hima under his leadership.
“The responsibility entrusted to me is to bring all stakeholders together, ensure smooth administration, and work towards the early appointment of a permanent Syiem,” Jyrwa said, adding that a Hima cannot function smoothly without its traditional head.
Reiterating customary norms, the Acting Chief stated that, as per Khasi tradition, a Syiem must belong to the royal lineage and must also be a follower of the Khasi faith.
Commenting on reports about another potential claimant P Syiem, Jyrwa said the Hima had limited information about his candidature, as he had not been actively involved in Dorbar Hima proceedings.
He added that information about P Syiem’s intention to contest the Syiemship had emerged through an Executive Member of the KHADC. P Syiem is reportedly a resident of Mairang.
During the Dorbar Hima, it was decided to call for unity and cooperation among all stakeholders to resolve the issue at the earliest, in accordance with tradition and established legal procedures.
