National vice president of the National People’s Party (NPP) Prestone Tynsong today said people ought to respect the mandate of the people and people cannot be forced to agree with a Khasi chief minister.
He launched an indirect attack at the United Democratic Party (UDP), the NPP’s former ally in the MDA government, and said the opposition camp should win at least 32 or more seats then stake claim to form a government with a chief minister from the community.
“We are the single largest, NPP has got 26. So why don’t you respect the decision taken by the elected representatives of the party because we already elected Conrad Sangma to be the Chief Minister to again become the Chief Minister for the next five years,” Tynsong questioned at a press conference.
Tynsong said there are conditions that one needs to respect. “You can’t force people just because you want a CM from Khasi-Jaiñtia Hills.”
He further said that people should not listen to the ‘Khasi CM’ agenda and “misleading activities” brought up by few groups of people who disturb peace in the State.
On whether there is a possibility that the two HSPDP MLAs could merge, Tynsong said, “Even if their party says no you cannot join party A, B or C, if both of them are willing, it is constitutionally allowed.” He brushed rumours that the NPP has held captive the two HSPDP MLAs and said he too is not aware of their whereabouts.
Confident that the NPP will again complete its full five year term, the NPP leader said his party is still reaching out to other political parties to join the coalition.
