Shillong: Vincent H. Pala says the Congress party has a new edge in the Shillong Lok Sabha by-election. Former Rajya Sabha MP Wanweiroy R. Kharlukhi recently jumped ship from the NPP to back Pala’s campaign. This shift brings more than just a single politician into the fold. A wave of grassroots leaders is now moving to the Congress.
Pala confirmed the political defection on Friday. He pointed to Kharlukhi’s thirty-year career as a major asset for his party. The former NPP state president spent 18 years with his previous outfit before making the switch. Pala noted that Kharlukhi carries a clean image and deep ties to both the church and local social groups. The Congress plans to find a fitting role for such a high-profile recruit.
The impact goes beyond one man. "With Kharlukhi’s support, we will be able to further strengthen the party," Pala said. He reported seeing similar joining trends take hold across Jowai, Ri War, and the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. Pala believes voters are warming to his candidacy as he prepares for the race. Officials expect the by-election date to drop at any moment. The seat has sat empty since February after the death of VPP member Ricky A.J. Syngkon.
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