Shillong, Oct 15: Following Election Commission of India (ECI) officially announcing the date for bye-election for the Gambegre constituency in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district, cabinet minister and National People’s Party (NPP) leader, Marcuise Marak, has welcomed the decision, recalling that the seat has been vacant for quite some time.
He pointed out that the Gambegre seat has been vacant since the previous MP election to the Tura parliamentary seat, leaving the constituency without a representative.
The bye-election for the Gambegre constituency is scheduled for November 13 and counting will be held on November 23.
Expressing confidence in his party’s prospects, he said, “Our party leaders and candidate are working hard on the ground, and we are confident of a good showing in the upcoming by-elections.”
He speculated that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate could be their closest competitor.
When asked about remarks made by Congress’ Tura MP Saleng Sangma, who was the sitting MLA from the constituency before winning the Tura MP seat, who claimed to have significantly improved roads and infrastructure during his tenure, Marak countered, “The constituency was severely lacking in development, but our Chief Minister sanctioned several road projects after visiting the area. People are aware of these issues.”
Marak further highlighted the recent progress in the constituency, including the establishment of two new matriculation centers and improvements in road conditions and drinking water facilities. “We are hopeful that people will recognize our efforts in addressing their long-standing needs,” he said.
Fellow NPP leader and cabinet minister, Rakkam A. Sangma echoed similar views, suggesting that the opposition Congress party faces an anti-incumbency factor.
He emphasized that NPP’s candidate, Dr Mehtab Chandi A. Sangma, is the best choice for Gambegre. “The people of Gambegre are aware of the benefits of electing a representative from the ruling party,” he remarked, hinting at the practical advantages of aligning with the government in power.
