The People’s Democratic Front (PDF) is on its way to merge with the National People’s Party (NPP).
According to sources, talks are underway for the proposed merger. Almost all office bearers of the PDF have reportedly agreed to go for the merger.
“The merger will take place before the election to Sohiong Assembly seat,” sources said.
It may be mentioned that the election to Sohiong Assembly seat will take place on May 10.
Sources also said that one cabinet berth would be given to the PDF if it decides to merge with the NPP.
Currently, the PDF has two MLAs. They are Banteidor Lyngdoh (Mawkynrew) and Gavin M. Mylliem (Sohra).
If the proposed merger takes place, the strength of the NPP led by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma will increase to 28 in the current 59-member House.
PDF is among the parties that supported the MDA government headed by Sangma.
Apart from PDF, other constituents of the ruling coalition are UDP with 11 legislators, BJP and HSPDP with two each besides two Independents.
All eyes are also on the poll results from Sohiong. The counting of votes will be held on May 13.
If NPP wins the seat, chances are that the UDP may lose the two cabinet berths in the MDA government.
Although elections to the 59 Assembly seats were held on February 27, polling to the Sohiong Assembly seat was adjourned after the demise of Horju Donkupar Roy Lyngdoh, a candidate of the UDP for the constituency.
