Amidst the notion that the big election battle in Meghalaya is always Sangma versus Sangma – two families that dominate state politics, Meghalaya BJP believes, its vice president Bernard Marak will surprise all.
Calling it a misconception of the people, BJP leader and former cabinet minister AL Hek told Meghalaya News 24, “Amidst this Sangma vs. Sangma battle between TMC and NPP, you will be surprised that Marak will come. You will see how BJP will come up in 2023 election; it will emerge victorious and will lead the Government in Meghalaya. “
The five time BJP MLA on Wednesday informed that the party state vice president and Tura MDC Bernard N Marak will contest against the Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma from South Tura in the upcoming 2023 Assembly elections in the state.
Speaking to reporters, Hek said, “Decision has already been taken that he (Bernard) will contest the election.”
He said he will contest from jail if bail is not granted to him.
Hek had recently visited Garo Hills and extended solidarity with the family of Bernard. “We told them that the party is behind you and don’t think that you have been left alone,” he said while adding that many people from the area are supporting Bernard.
During the visit, Hek convened a series of meetings in North and South Tura constituencies to gear the preparation of the party for the upcoming 2023 polls.
Expressing confidence that the BJP will cross double-digit in 2023, the party leader said they are looking at 15 potential seats from the region.
“If we get good faces we may get all 15 seats,” he said. Meanwhile, Hek said as many as 5 sitting legislators from different political parties have expressed interest to join the BJP. However, they are yet to give any confirmation and the party is waiting for them, he added.