Former deputy chief minister Stanlington David Khongwir on Tuesday passed at NEIGRIHMS hospital.
He was a former legislator of Mawlai constituency.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma also paid respect to late Khongwir, who was also the longest serving headman, at his residence at Mawlai Nonglum.
“We are deeply saddened by the demise of SD Khongwir and we all know him as a person who has contributed immensely to his constituency and to the state as a whole. He has been known as a person who was really loved by the masses. It reflected in the kind of support that he continued even after he was not an MLA, even then the love and support from the people simply reflected the kind of leader he was. Definitely, we will all miss him,” Sangma said.
“I also had the opportunity to interact and work with him in the past. When he was a rangbah shnong, we had multiple meetings. I really had a lot of chances to learn from him and to interact with him and discuss so many things. I remember meeting him last before the elections and it was a great opportunity to meet him. At this point, I do express my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and I pray to the Almighty that his soul may rest in peace and give strength to the family so that they can bear this loss,” he said.
Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma has also expressed grief on the passing away of SD Khongwir.
“SD Khongwir will be remembered for his role during the Hill State movement and for his dedication and service to the people. He left an indelible mark in all the offices that he held. A true statesman, he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations,” the Speaker said.
“On behalf of all members of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, the Speaker has conveyed his deepest condolences to bereaved family and loved ones,” he added.
It may be mentioned that Late Khongwir has been one of the prominent politician since the time Meghalaya got its Statehood.
He was a respected figure, well-known not only in his constituency but throughout the state. His political journey began with his first electoral victory in 1972 and continued successfully until 1993 and he served as the MLA of Mawlai for an impressive 25 years.
However, in 1998 he choosed to retire but in his 25 years, Khongwir held several significant portfolios, including Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya in governments led by Late Darwin Diengdoh Pugh and Late Brington Buhai Lyngdoh. He also served as the Minister in charge of various departments and chaired the State Planning Board.