By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 27: The Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) on Wednesday conveyed its intention to ensure that both its MLAs are given an opportunity to serve in the Cabinet. The party leadership clarified that discussions are still in progress and that a final decision will be taken after due consultation.
HSPDP president KP Pangniang revealed that the party was considering a way to share the Cabinet berth between its two legislators and that the decision would take some time.
He explained that the issue was under internal discussion and that the party would meet at the appropriate time to finalise the matter before informing the public.
At present, the lone Cabinet berth allotted to the HSPDP in the MDA 2.0 government is held by Shakliar Warjri, who serves as the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs.
The other party MLA, Methodius Dkhar, has not been inducted into the Cabinet so far, though he is understood to be keen on serving in a ministerial role as well.
The development comes as the MDA government nears the halfway point of its current term. Speculation about a Cabinet reshuffle has been gaining ground not only within the HSPDP but also among other coalition partners such as the BJP, NPP and UDP, where several MLAs who have not yet been given ministerial responsibilities are hoping for inclusion.
Although anticipation of a reshuffle is high, the MDA leadership has so far kept mum.
Political observers note that a Cabinet expansion or reshuffle could take place in September this year, following the State Assembly session.
