By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 28: In a candid admission that underscores the Congress party’s current position in Meghalaya, MPCC president and three-time Lok Sabha member, Vincent H. Pala has indicated that he may have little choice but to contest the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha by-election, stating that the party does not appear to have an alternative candidate at present.
The Shillong seat fell vacant following the death of VPP MP, Ricky A.J. Syngkon on February 19, prompting the Congress to initiate consultations to identify its nominee. Pala, who had finished runner-up to Syngkon in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, has now emerged as the central figure in the party’s deliberations.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Pala conveyed that the absence of a clear alternative within the party was pushing him towards contesting the seat, even as formal procedures were yet to be completed. He indicated that while a meeting had earlier recommended his name and forwarded a resolution to the central leadership, the exercise did not fully incorporate inputs from all block and district units.
He suggested that another round of consultations would likely be held after May 10 to ensure broader consensus before arriving at a final decision, which is expected by May 15.
Pala also explained that he had initially sought time despite the proposal in his favour, as he needed to consult with his family and close associates. However, he acknowledged that most party leaders had urged him to step into the race, while leaving room for the possibility of other contenders emerging during the process.
