After much drama of who will form the government, nearly 18 new faces are now part of the 11th Meghalaya Legislative Assembly.
New faces and first time MLAs included like former minister from UDP Paul Lyngdoh, former MLA and VPP president Ardent M. Basaiawmoit and fresh faces like HSPDP MLAs Methodius Dkhar and Shakliar Warjri, Congress MLAs Charles Marngar, Ronnie V. Lyngdoh among others.
The House which earlier had four female MLAs has now been reduced to three.
First timer and also first female MLA from Jaintia Hills region, Santa Mary Shylla took oath today along with M. Ampareen Lyngdoh (NPP) and Miani D Shira from.
It may be noted that with a total of 36 women candidates in the fray, only three women were able to find representation in the 11th Meghalaya legislative Assembly.
Ampareen retained East Shillong constituency while Miani retained Ampati. Santa defeated Shillong MP and MPCC president Vincent H. Pala from Sutnga Saipung.
Shylla, who is in the ruling side, is excited and is looking forward to working with the government. She also mentioned that she aims to contribute and do whatever development is needed in her constituency
“Roads and development in different sectors is also an issue but the connectivity of roads is the main priority. As for the coke plants, we will have to talk with the government since I can understand the coke plants are affecting my people but we will find the best solution for the people,” said Shylla.
First-time Congress MLA also the present Member of District Council (MDC) Charles Marngar said that his demand for withdrawal of the border agreement still stands and he will take up the border issue in the House.
Major issues like development which is a long list and road construction, school buildings and the health sector are issues that are a major concern for the new MLA from Mawhati.