By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 27: A number of former legislators are likely to join the BJP in May as the party looks to strengthen its base ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections.
Sources said that former MLAs like Mohendro Rapsang (who recently resigned from the NPP), Jemino Mawthoh (who had been with the UDP), and Pynshngain N. Syiem (formerly with the Congress) would officially join the saffron party in May.
The BJP is also trying to rope in some more senior leaders from different parties to boost its organisational strength and presence in the state, particularly in the Khasi Hills areas.
In the current political setup in Meghalaya, the ruling coalition is led by the NPP of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and includes the UDP, BJP, and other smaller regional parties like HSPDP. This arrangement has been in place since the 2023 assembly polls, where no single party secured a majority in the 60-member House.
The BJP, despite being part of the government, has limited seats and has been working to expand its base in a state where politics is heavily influenced by tribal identities, demands for protection of indigenous land rights under the Sixth Schedule, and concerns over illegal immigration.
Speaking on the matter, BJP MLA and former cabinet minister Alexander L. Hek, who represents Pynthorumkhrah constituency, expressed optimism that more leaders would join the party. He stated that the BJP, which is doing good work both at the Centre and in the state through central schemes and infrastructure projects, would be able to attract more people in the coming days.
The expected induction in May comes at a time when several former leaders from regional parties have shown signs of discontent.
The BJP has been vocal about its long-term goal of emerging as a stronger force by 2028, even while remaining a junior partner in the present coalition.
Party leaders have repeatedly highlighted development initiatives funded by the Centre, such as road connectivity, tourism projects, and higher tax devolution, to appeal to voters across the Christian-majority state.
