By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 30: As lone Congress MLA Ronnie V Lyngdoh enters NPP-fold, Deputy Chief Minister and party’s national vice president Sniawbhalang Dhar clarified on Wednesday that there is no agreement or assurance of a Cabinet berth for the Mylliem legislator following his decision to join the ruling party.
Responding to media queries, Dhar stated, “There was no discussion regarding any Cabinet position. The only understanding was that Lyngdoh would join the party to strengthen it.”
He added that any responsibilities for Lyngdoh—whether in the government or the party—would be decided at the appropriate time.
“One of the reasons he (Lyngdoh) joined is because he appreciated the work being done by the NPP-led MDA government,” the deputy chief minister said.
Meanwhile, former Mylliem MLA and NPP state working president Hamletson Dohling said Lyngdoh’s entry into the party was not a sudden development.
According to him, discussions had taken place at the highest level, including with NPP national president Conrad K Sangma and state president Prestone Tynsong.
“The party welcomes leaders who are committed to working for the welfare of the people. Lyngdoh’s decision is a step forward for collective growth,” Dohling said, adding that the NPP has made history by becoming the party with the highest number of MLAs in the state.
When asked whether the move was aimed at countering the growing popularity of the VPP in Mylliem, Dohling responded, “We are not concerned with what other parties are doing. Our focus is on strengthening the NPP across all constituencies.”
He also dismissed concerns over a possible rivalry for the 2028 party ticket from Mylliem, stating that the NPP is a disciplined party that knows how to take decisions at the right time.
“We are working with the goal of returning to power in 2028, and Lyngdoh’s joining will contribute to the party’s mission for the overall development of the state,” he added.