SHILLONG, JUN 23: The state BJP on Tuesday said it will not take a call on a candidate for the Shillong Lok Sabha byelection until the Election Commission of India announces the poll schedule, with state president Rikman G Momin stressing that the decision rests with the party’s central leadership.
Speaking to reporters after the induction of former West Shillong MLA Mohendro Rapsang into the party, Momin was asked about a possible candidate for the parliamentary seat.
“This question has been asked (to me) for the last three-four months,” Momin said.
On whether Rapsang could be considered for the byelection, he added, “That is not in my head, that is the parliamentary election (which will be decided by central leadership).”
Momin said the state unit is prepared but will wait for the ECI’s announcement.
“Our central leadership is waiting for the announcement of the Election Commission of India. Till now, ECI is yet to announce. There is nothing to rush. We are getting ready with our own work,” he stated.
The Shillong Lok Sabha seat fell vacant after the passing of sitting MP Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon on February 19, earlier this year.
The ECI is yet to notify dates for the byelection.
BJP leaders said the party’s focus for now is on strengthening booth-level organisation and ensuring central government schemes reach beneficiaries in Meghalaya.
