The United Democratic Party (UDP) has warned that if politicians continue the trend of spewing venom at each, democracy in the state will soon be replaced by ‘monocracy’.
UDP vice-president Allantry F Dkhar told a few reporters recently that it is important for political leaders to speak on issues rather than engage in personal attacks.
The current campaign for the Shillong Lok Sabha seat has witnessed bitter, often personal, exchanges – not in person, because the candidates have not debated each other – but through press releases, speeches at rallies and interviews.
Dkhar emphasised that maintaining cordiality and decorum is crucial as succumbing to the current trend will have negative consequences for future generations.
Dkhar stressed that it is the responsibility of political leaders to set an example for future generations and demonstrate that, as a cultured society, we can maintain decorum and respect for each other.
UDP general secretary Jemino Mawthoh added that while he cannot speak for other political parties, the UDP and RDA have instructed all members to refrain from making negative comments or remarks.
Mawthoh expressed his concern about the ongoing political slugfest, stating that it is highly unbecoming of a cultured society. He urged political leaders to focus on issues and refrain from personal attacks. Mawthoh also cited social media reactions and disruptions in meetings as unfortunate incidents that reflect poorly on the political culture of the state.
The UDP leaders were speaking following a meeting between all political parties and the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya to discuss incidents that occurred during election meetings and the recent cold-blooded murders in Ichamati and Mawlai, Mawroh.
Regarding the killing of the 52-year-old labourer in Mawroh, Dkhar skirted round the issue by stating that the police have been given a 15-day deadline to come up with an action plan and no further comments should be made to avoid hampering the investigation.
