Will the axe fall on six ministers? Cabinet reshuffle buzz intensifies in MDA

Correspondent

SHILLONG: As the Conrad Sangma-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) 2.0 government approaches its midterm mark, political circles are abuzz with speculation of a major cabinet reshuffle that could potentially unseat as many as six ministers. The anticipated shake-up, likely in September, is expected to redefine existing power equations, with intense lobbying underway and mounting pressure within coalition parties.

According to highly placed sources, three to four ministers from the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), along with one each from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP), are likely to face the axe. While there are murmurs about the possible removal of a United Democratic Party (UDP) minister as well, party leadership has maintained a conspicuous silence — reflecting ongoing deliberations yet to yield consensus.

“It is the prerogative of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma,” has become the common refrain among coalition leaders, as those who were left out in the previous MDA-I term are now vying for inclusion, banking on the midterm reshuffle to tip the scales in their favour.

Within the HSPDP, internal pressure is building. The party currently holds one cabinet berth, occupied by Shakliar Warjri, the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs. However, the party’s second MLA, Methodius Dkhar, is also seeking a ministerial berth.

Acknowledging the demand for equitable representation, HSPDP president KP Pangniang confirmed that internal discussions are underway. “We will see when and how we will take up the discussion,” Pangniang said. He further clarified that the Chief Minister has not yet been approached on the matter, stating that the party must first hold internal deliberations. Pangniang added that the party would deliberate further before making a final call in the presence of both MLAs. He expressed confidence that the issue of cabinet sharing would be resolved amicably, stating, “The party would deliberate further on the matter before arriving at a final decision.”

As the political mood grows increasingly charged, even the BJP and UDP are reportedly facing pressure from legislators waiting in the wings. Though the top MDA leadership continues to maintain a stoic silence, the writing on the wall is increasingly clear — a cabinet reshuffle appears not just imminent but necessary to maintain equilibrium within the coalition and prevent dissent from spilling over.

Whether six ministers will ultimately be axed or not, the speculation alone signals a tectonic shift in Meghalaya’s political landscape — one that could usher in new faces, realign party dynamics, and recalibrate power ahead of the final stretch of governance.

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