Meghalaya: UDP, HSPDP to finalize seat sharing for KHADC and JHADC elections

Correspondent

Shillong: The United Democratic Party (UDP) and the Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) are poised to finalize their seat-sharing arrangement for the upcoming Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) elections. This follows a meeting of the Regional Democratic Alliance (RDA) on Monday, marking a key step in their election preparations.

“We have agreed to reconvene on November 11 at 8pm to finalize our strategy and decisions on how to approach the MDC election,” said UDP leader and former Chief Executive Member (CEM) Titosstarwell Chyne. “Key considerations include whether we will form alliances with other parties or come to an understanding on candidate selection in specific constituencies.”

Chyne stated that the UDP plans to contest all 29 seats but will collaborate with the HSPDP in specific areas. “However, the final decision on this will be made on the December 11,” he added.

Chyne, alongside HSPDP President KP Pangniang, expressed confidence that no single party would secure an outright majority in the councils, making coalition-building essential for forming Executive Committees (ECs). “While it’s possible that no party will achieve an absolute majority, the nature of local elections often depends on individual candidates’ popularity,” Chyne observed. When questioned about the possibility of collaborating with the ruling NPP, Chyne clarified, “It is too early to make such assumptions. Our goal is to contest and win as many seats as possible. Our final strategy regarding alliances or coalitions will be decided on December 11.”

The UDP, Chyne emphasized, is focused on its independent preparation and is unfazed by other parties’ strategies. “Speaking on behalf of the RDA, I do not wish to comment on the strategies of other parties. We are committed to strengthening our performance in the MDC election,” he said.

On the perceived challenge from the VPP, Chyne dismissed it as “an external perception,” adding, “Our priority is to focus on our objectives rather than worrying about others’ opinions.”

Responding to NPP leader Ampareen Lyngdoh’s assertion that forming ECs in district councils often requires the “blessings” of the ruling NPP, Chyne firmly rejected the claim. “The district council operates as a constitutional body with its own powers and functions, independent of any government influence,” he asserted. “The formation of an EC can be achieved by parties not aligned with the ruling government. Past instances have shown this to be true, and we are confident of forming an EC without the NPP’s involvement or ‘blessings.’”

The RDA’s upcoming decisions on December 11 will likely shape the contours of the district council elections and determine the alliance’s approach in the competitive electoral landscape.

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