By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 28: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) intends to expand its footprint in the Garo Hills and challenge the dominance of the National People’s Party (NPP) in the 2028 Assembly elections.
Party president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit told reporters that the 2028 electoral battle is anticipated to be primarily between the VPP and the NPP.
He acknowledged that at present, there is a view that the VPP may perform strongly in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, while the NPP may retain its influence in the Garo Hills. However, he maintained that the political landscape would shift significantly once the state enters the election year, suggesting that the contest would not follow conventional expectations.
Asked whether the VPP would consider approaching former chief minister Mukul Sangma to spearhead its campaign in the Garo Hills, Basaiawmoit rejected the idea.
He stated that the party does not subscribe to “simplistic political strategies”. Instead, he said, its approach is rooted in principles, ideology and issue-based politics, adding that the party would not compromise on those foundations.
Basaiawmoit asserted that the VPP would not be without leadership in the Garo Hills.
Referring to (L) Ricky AJ Syngkon, he recalled that the party had fielded him for the Shillong Lok Sabha seat despite scepticism at the time, and that the outcome validated the party’s decision.
He indicated that the VPP has leaders in place, but said it was premature to disclose further details.
The VPP chief described the party’s recent outreach in the Garo Hills as encouraging. He said the party has been making frequent visits to the region to communicate its objectives, goals and guiding principles, and expressed satisfaction with what he termed a positive response.
According to him, many in the Garo Hills are beginning to see the VPP as a regional force focused on safeguarding the tribal interests of Meghalaya.
