SHILLONG : The National People’s Party (NPP) on Thursday received a significant boost ahead of the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha byelection after several leaders and members from the VPP, Congress, BJP and UDP joined the ruling party during a campaign programme at Rymbai village in East Jaintia Hills.
The new members formally extended their support to NPP candidate Dr DRL Nonglait in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister and NPP National Vice President Sniawbhalang Dhar, Sutnga-Saipung MLA Santa Mary Shylla, and other senior party leaders. A large number of supporters also attended the event.
Welcoming the new entrants, party leaders expressed confidence that the move would further strengthen the NPP’s campaign in the upcoming byelection.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Nonglait said the joining of leaders from different political parties would enhance the NPP’s prospects in the election.
“Many leaders have come to join the NPP today. We already have a strong vote bank, but to achieve victory in this election we need more support,” he said.
He thanked the new members for placing their trust in the NPP and expressed confidence that their support would contribute to a decisive victory.
“I believe their decision to join will help us secure a big win in the by-election. Thank you for aligning with the NPP to ensure the party candidate’s victory,” he added.
Dr Nonglait also said he accepted the NPP ticket after being impressed by the performance of the NPP-led government in Meghalaya.
“I have seen the performance and work of the NPP-led government, which convinced me. I am satisfied with what is being done in the state and with the need for development and progress of our people,” he said.
The Shillong parliamentary constituency is heading for a byelection following the death of the sitting Member of Parliament, creating a vacancy in the Lok Sabha seat.