Metbah dismisses rumours on UDP leadership change

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 22: UDP president Metbah Lyngdoh on Friday asserted that he is not aware of any demand for a change in party leadership.

Amid reports that his leadership is under scrutiny, Lyngdoh said he welcomes such feedback.

“It feels good when people scrutinise my leadership. That is the best way for me to improve,” he said, adding that a good leader should listen more and talk less to learn and act on inputs effectively.

Lyngdoh also dismissed reports that Mawkyrwat MLA Renikton L. Tongkhar is preparing to leave the UDP, even as thousands of supporters and leaders from UDP and HSPDP recently joined the NPP in South West Khasi Hills.

He clarified that while supporters are free to switch parties, elected representatives are bound by the anti-defection law. As of now, there is no indication that Tongkhar is leaving the party, Lyngdoh said, adding that he remains in regular contact with the MLA, who has personally assured him that there is no move to quit at present.

The UDP chief added that the party has asked local leaders in Mawkyrwat to assess the ground situation and report if organisational support is required.

Reacting to suggestions that large-scale supporter movement could signal future shifts by elected members, Lyngdoh downplayed attempts by the NPP to lure UDP MLAs. He said such practices should not be encouraged, but ultimately it is up to individual MLAs to decide.

On the broader political scenario, Lyngdoh acknowledged the BJP’s aggressive push to expand in Meghalaya and weaken regional forces. However, he noted that every political party has its rise and fall, citing the examples of Congress and TMC.

He emphasised the need for unity among regional parties, particularly through the Regional Democratic Alliance formed by UDP and HSPDP.

“The population of local indigenous tribes is minuscule. We have to be serious about it and not play politics for the sake of playing,” he said.

He pointed out that while national parties focus on national interests, regional parties like the UDP must prioritise the interests of the people of the state. “We first have to unite, rather than talking too much about the national party,” Lyngdoh added.