Even after losing the battle of supremacy in Ampati, Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday exuded confidence that NPP would complete five-year term in office and was content with the defeat margin.
“We have done quite well reducing the margin to 3000 votes only, and this is something that should be a concerned for the Congress too,” Conrad said.
“It was an uphill task for us but we worked hard and tried to explain to people that change has already taken place in the state, and Ampati needs to follow. The Congress has been holding the seat for the past six terms and had won by almost 9,000 votes in the last elections,” Conrad added.
NPP candidate Clement G Momin lost to leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma’s eldest daughter, Miani Dalbot Shira.
Dismissing speculation that MDA partners may pull out of the government as the Congress became the single largest party with 21 MLAs, Conrad said, “The coalition partners are together. You ask any partners they will tell that this government will last for five years. We are committed to our cause and to what we are doing together.”
On Congress’ claim that the MDA government will last only for six months, he said, “It is obvious that the Congress has to give some hope that they will come back. They can claim anything, and I say that it will last for five years.”
Speaking about initiatives of MDA government such as improving the delivery system, proper implementation of schemes, and development must reach to the last point, Conrad said, “We are working very hard on road infrastructure and other infrastructure like power so that houses will be electrified within this calendar year. Our plans have not changed, and we are focussed on what we need to do.”
He also refuted Congress allegation of infighting within the NPP on vacating an Assembly seat for him to contest the by-election, saying, “the infighting is clearly within the Congress.”
“In my case, a decision has been made, and there is no confusion at all. I will continue as chief minister, and I plan to contest the by-election. Within a few days, the exact area and plan will be revealed by the party,” Conrad who is the NPP national president said.