Shillong: National People’s Party state president Prestone Tynsong slammed the door on handing Cabinet berths to eight former UDP lawmakers. These legislators switched to the BJP on September 23 in New Delhi. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju oversaw the jump. The shift pushed BJP’s seat count to 10 in the 60-member Assembly, while the UDP dropped from 12 to four seats. Both parties remain inside the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance.
Reports suggest the new BJP group wants three ministerial spots. They also want a Deputy Chief Minister post. Tynsong denied any secret deals. "The coalition partners had not reached any understanding on accommodating the legislators who left the UDP," Tynsong said.
Rumors swirl about specific demands. Sources claim Rymbui wants the Deputy Chief Minister role and Finance. Syiem eyes the Home portfolio, and Shylla hunts for Urban Affairs. Some members want to oust Power Minister Metbah Lyngdoh. A.L. Hek is allegedly linked to the Speaker’s chair. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma maintains the BJP never formally requested these jobs.
Tynsong dismissed fears of the BJP trying to break the NPP. BJP spokesperson Mariahom Kharkrang agreed. He claimed the party only wants growth. Tynsong expects the ruling alliance to last the full term.
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