The National People’s Party (NPP) leader and Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said former Māwsynrām legislator and BJP leader Himalaya M Shangpliang has expressed his willingness to join NPP.
Confirming the rumour of Shangpliang joining NPP, Dhar said, the BJP leader is likely to join shortly.
He, however, said the NPP may finalise the name of the candidate for the Shillong Parliamentary seat by September end.
“Shangpliang has expressed his willingness to join but he didn’t say that I will join, I will contest but he is most welcome if he joins the party but selection of the candidate we will discuss accordingly in the party itself,” Dhar said while indicating that despite joining NPP, Shangpliang may not get ticket.
The NPP leader further said, “The former Māwsynrām legislator has expressed to join the party. I think he may join shortly also, we didn’t discuss that, let them join first, after joining whoever is willing to contest will express their willingness to the party.”
Asked, he also informed, “ I think by the end of September we will be able to give the name of the candidate.”
According to sources, some NPP legislators are in favour of Shangpliang contesting Lok Sabha election 2024 from Shillong Parliamentary seat on NPP’s ticket.
However, not denying the rumours, Dhar said, “Let somebody join us first then we will decide. As of now he hasn’t joined.”
Asked if Himalaya M Shangpliang will be the candidate, the NPP leader said, “It’s not me alone, we have to listen to the voice and views from our party workers.”
He also informed about his meeting with Shangpliang.
“There are a number of people who expressed to contest election as NPP candidates for the Shillong seat,” he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister also confirmed that for the Tura Lok Sabha seat there is a sitting MP.