The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly is set to commence its Autumn session this morning, which will run until August 30, featuring five working days. This session will spotlight the National People’s Party (NPP) as it commands an absolute majority with 31 legislators.
Amidst the changing political dynamics, the Congress, now reduced to just one MLA, Ronee V. Lyngdoh, faces uncertainty regarding his position as Leader of the Opposition. A crucial decision awaits Speaker Thomas Sangma, who must decide whether to allow Lyngdoh to retain his role or to appoint a new Leader of the Opposition.
With the Trinamool Congress (TMC) now holding five legislators, the question arises whether the senior-most TMC legislator, former Chief Minister Dr. Mukul Sangma, will be considered for the post. This comes as the Congress has dwindled to a single MLA, while the Voice of the People Party (VPP) holds four seats.
“That will leave it to the wisdom of the Speaker, I am all alone now, I will be meeting the speaker tomorrow and if he asks I will step down, or he may de-notify me,” the lone Congress MLA Roniee V Lyngdoh said.
Additionally, the appointment of the opposition’s Chief Whip is another key decision expected to be addressed during this session. All eyes will be on the Assembly as it navigates these significant political shifts.