By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 16: In a significant political shake-up ahead of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) polls, the National People’s Party (NPP) has denied a ticket to the incumbent Chief Executive Member (CEM), Albinush R Marak.
The party defended the move, stating that internal assessments and grassroots feedback indicated the sitting CEM had “slim chances” of retaining his seat in the Siju constituency. NPP working president Marcuise N Marak told reporters on Monday that the decision followed a rigorous evaluation of all aspirants. “We have denied the ticket to the present CEM. This was not an easy decision, but after reviewing the current political scenario, we found his prospects of winning were very limited,” Marak said. The party has replaced the CEM with Calis G Momin for the Siju seat.
Emphasising that “winnability” was the sole criterion for selection, the NPP leadership said the State Election Committee screened candidates based on local organizational strength and public support. “In elections, sentiment alone cannot determine candidature. We must ensure the party remains competitive,” Marcuise Marak added.
To prevent internal friction, senior leaders, including National President and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, have reportedly met with the outgoing CEM and other bypassed aspirants to seek their cooperation for the official candidates.
The NPP has officially released its first list of 24 candidates, approved by State President Prestone Tynsong. The list includes Calis G Momin from Siju, Jewil S Marak from Wagesik, Sengchim N Sangma from Gasuapara, Kapilson A Sangma from Barengapara, Rakesh A Sangma from Babelapara, Balsrang Arengh from Amongpara, Charmingstar N Sangma from Tura, Kredithson Ch Marak from Dengnakpara, Linegor K Sangpara from Koch-Betasing, Arbinstone B Marak from Rochonpara, Anseng A Sangma from Asananag, Andresh Ch Marak from Balachanda, Maxwell M Sangma from Batabari, Peterjop A Sangma from Shyamnagar, Grahambell A Sangma from Jengjal, Sunny Rogers G Momin from Rongrong-Ponglseng, Da Sangma M from Kharkutta, Henen R Sangma from Darugre, Sengbath R Marak from Williamnagar and Nihim D Shira from Samandagre.
The party is yet to finalise candidates for five constituencies viz., Raksamgre, Naguapara, Boldamgre, Silkigre and Rongrikkimgre.
