SHILLONG, MAY 8: Deputy Chief Minister and NPP national vice president Sniawbhalang Dhar on Friday said the party has not finalized its candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha seat, amid growing support in Garo Hills for former minister James Sangma.
Responding to queries, Dhar said there was no problem with names being projected, but clarified that the party would deliberate only after the incumbent MP’s term ends.
“We are yet to take a decision. Let his tenure complete first then we will sit as a party,” Dhar said, referring to sitting Rajya Sabha MP Dr WR Kharlukhi. “I think his tenure will end in June but I am not very sure.”
Dr Kharlukhi was elected to the Upper House in June 2020. Rajya Sabha terms run for six years.
When asked if the nomination should go to a leader from a specific region, Dhar dismissed the idea of regional considerations.
“…we never think region wise,” he said.
“Whatever the party thinks appropriate we will go with that because it is a collective decision not a one man show decision.”
Dhar underscored the party’s internal process. “The NPP is a very disciplined party. We always take everything on board,” he said.
