SHILLONG, SEPT 11: The United Democratic Party (UDP) on Friday put up a brave face after six of its MLAs gave its central executive committee (CEC) meeting and foundation day celebration a miss, asserting that the party remains united.
Those absent included West Shillong MLA Paul Lyngdoh, Sohiong MLA Synshar Roy Kupar Lyngdoh, Mawphlang MLA Matthew Beyondstar Kurbah, Ranikor MLA Pius Marwein, Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla and Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem.
UDP general secretary Titosstarwell Chyne said leaders from across the state, including Garo Hills and Jaintia Hills, attended the emergency CEC meeting.
“We had a very good emergency CEC meeting,” Chyne told reporters, adding that five MLAs were present.
“As of today, there is no such thing. There is no question of jumping or leaving the party. They will remain as it is,” he said.
“Who created that smoke or fire? It is not from our side. Our party is intact, our MLAs are intact,” he asserted.
Chyne, however, admitted that the future cannot be predicted. “As they have clarified before the CEC, there is no such move as of now. We cannot anticipate what will happen tomorrow,” he said.
Explaining the absence of the six legislators, Chyne said Synshar Kupar cited a death in the family, while Pius Marwein is out of station. Others, he said, had prior programmes.
“We are united as of today,” Chyne maintained.
On their absence from the foundation day event, he said, “We have invited all. Maybe they are not free. We cannot force anybody if they are occupied with their schedule.”
Dismissing speculation over UDP MLAs camping in Delhi, Chyne said MLAs are free to travel and meet central leaders.
“MLAs are free to fly to Delhi, Kolkata. It is not our job to check where they go. They can meet union ministers, the Prime Minister. Meeting Amit Shah or the Prime Minister does not mean they will join BJP. I myself meet union ministers and BJP leaders, you cannot say I am joining BJP,” he said.
On rumours of dissent against party chief Metbah Lyngdoh, Chyne said the matter was discussed and clarified.
“We discussed that issue also. They have clarified there is no problem with the leadership of the party as of today,” he said.
“I am not an expert to judge body language. I saw them happy, smiling, shaking hands and speaking in the meeting. If they had not attended, that would be suspicious. They attended and they informed,” he added.
Asked if the UDP is considering a leadership change, Chyne said, “We don’t have any such plan. In UDP, it is the general council which decides whether the present president will continue or be changed. That is the practice.”
By Our Reporter
