SHILLONG, Feb 16: With just a week left for the MDC polls, the Congress party has cautioned that the NPP and the state government may resort to using money and muscle power to influence the outcome.
Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Vincent Pala said on Sunday that the party’s campaign is progressing well.
“We should perform well in this election, but the government may attempt to use money and muscle power in the final days, as they appear desperate with just a week remaining,” Pala told The Shillong Times on Sunday.
Expressing confidence in the party’s prospects, Pala said Congress has a strong chance of winning at least 17 constituencies. However, he acknowledged that the VPP has also emerged as a formidable force in several areas, including Mawlai and Nongkrem.
“As far as the NPP is concerned, it relies on money and muscle power, but the people of Meghalaya are smart,” he remarked.
Pala is also optimistic about the party’s overall performance, stating that despite having only one MLA in the state at present, Congress is confident it will not need a post-poll alliance.
“There is no question of forming an alliance after the election. I believe we will secure a majority on our own,” the State Congress president asserted.
It may be mentioned that the much-anticipated Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) elections will be held on February 21, with vote counting scheduled for February 24.
