Senior BJP leader and Tura MDC Bernard N. Marak has accused the NPP of being dominated only by the family of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma since all important political appointments in the State were given to members of the family.
Marak’s remarks followed the decision by the MDA cabinet on September 6 to appoint Conrad’s sister Agatha Sangma as chairperson of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR). The mandate of the SCPCR includes monitoring the implementation of child protection laws, addressing grievances related to child rights violations, and promoting awareness about children’s rights.
In a statement issued today, Marak said, “No matter how smart and educated other members of the party may be, the benefit would always go to the family. Dynastic politics reigns in NPP and all efforts put in by hard working members of the party go down to benefit a few members of the family. Even Rajya Sabha would be given to a member of the family only.”
Referring to the appointment of Agatha as SCPCR chairperson after her humiliating defeat in the Lok Sabha election from Tura seat, Marak said, “It’s so pathetic that those against whom majority of the people have voted against get the benefit to lead as a chief of the prestigious panel. Maybe that’s what democracy means to them.”
“I am personally questioning why only family members alone get political appointments after losing elections? Is there a shortage of intelligent and capable leaders in the NPP?” Marak added.
It may be mentioned that former MLA and Conrad’s elder brother, James Sangma was appointed as chairman of the Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) shortly after the lost the Assembly election in 2023 from Dadenggre seat in West Garo Hills.
Conrad’s wife Mehtab Chandee Sangma who is the national treasurer of NPP was selected by the party to contest the upcoming by-election from Gambegre constituency.
Conrad’s uncle, Thomas Sangma, an MLA from North Tura constituency is the current Speaker of the State Assembly.
Moreover, Conrad’s brother-in-law, Sanjay Sangma who is an MLA from Mahendraganj constituency is the chairman of Meghalaya Infratech and Innovations Corporation Ltd.
A cousin of Conrad, Ian Botham Sangma who is an MLA of Salmanpara constituency is an adviser to the Forest and Environment Department.
