Shillong: United Democratic Party general secretary Titosstarwell Chyne condemned the departure of eight MLAs to the BJP on Wednesday. He invoked the legacy of late party president Dr. Donkupar Roy to criticize the move. Roy always opposed political shifting. The defectors left the party on their own terms. Chyne admitted the exodus hit the organization hard.
He told reporters, "I stand by what the late Dr Donkupar Roy taught us. He used to say that he was totally against defection. So, all of us do not appreciate such defections." Chyne left the final verdict on the betrayal to the voters. The party must now find new candidates across all eight constituencies.
UDP organizers are currently holding local meetings to rally the remaining base. Chyne noted that former members are already signaling interest in returning to the fold. He insisted that Meghalaya still wants a strong regional voice. Meanwhile, the fate of the three suspended defecting MLAs stays with the Assembly Speaker. Chyne refused to weigh in on any potential rulings.
Jaintia Hills MDCs have pledged their loyalty to the UDP leadership. Questions regarding Lahkmen Rymbui and his cabinet seat remain unresolved. Chyne said the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance is handling those discussions. The party is now shifting its focus toward the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha by-election.
Comments