By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 30: Newly elected KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM), Winston Tony Lyngdoh has admitted that addressing long-standing irregularities in the Trade Department—particularly in the issuance of trading licences to non-tribal traders will not be an easy task.
Lyngdoh, who previously held the Trade portfolio under former CEM Shemborlang Rynjah said these issues have persisted for years and cannot be resolved overnight.
“We need to be patient. But I want to assure that we are working to improve the system, especially in issuing trading licences,” he told reporters, noting concerns about licenses granted in border areas of Ri-Bhoi.
As former in-charge of the Trade Department, Lyngdoh said some measures have already been taken to streamline and correct deficiencies. “Whatever steps we take must always protect the interests of the indigenous Khasi tribe and work for their benefit,” he affirmed.
The new CEM also said the EC had managed to respond to concerns raised by the KSU Sohra Circle over Labour Clearance Certificates (LCCs).
“We have clarified their doubts and explained the council’s position. I am confident that the pressure group concern will be satisfied with the clarification provided by the previous EC,” he added.
On the priorities of his Executive Committee, Lyngdoh said there would be continuity with the policies set under his predecessor.
“We have tried our best to deliver on the priorities we set when we assumed office after the elections. I will now work to accomplish the unfinished tasks initiated by the former CEM. The road ahead will not be easy, but we will push forward,” he said.
Lyngdoh informed that the list of new Executive Members (EMs) will be submitted to the Governor within one or two days for approval.
The newly elected CEM revealed that portfolios will be allotted once the approval is received, with only minor changes expected from the previous arrangement. He confirmed that the new EC will not have a Deputy CEM as decided by the party right from the first EC to avoid unnecessary expenditures.
He further stated that the new EC will focus on urgent matters and ensure no delays in implementing party priorities, pointing out that the council’s functioning had slowed over the last few months due to Rynjah’s ill health.
Responding to speculation that Rynjah’s resignation was due to political instability, Lyngdoh dismissed the claims.
“I want to make it very clear to the people that his resignation was purely due to health reasons. There is no political instability. Even the party leadership accepted his decision, acknowledging that his health must come first,” he said.
When asked if Rynjah could return as CEM once he recovers, Lyngdoh said it was “too early” to discuss such possibilities,
Outlining his vision, Lyngdoh said his first goal is to build teamwork within the new EC.
“Once the team is in place, we can collectively deliberate and decide how to move forward. Personally, as CEM, I would like to give a push to all the efforts initiated in the past six months,” he stated.
