Wahlang’s nomination: ARPA likely to fall

SHILLONG, FEB 26: In a week full of political surprises in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, the regional parties conglomerate ARPA executive committee is likely to be toppled with Meghalaya governor Keshari Nath Tripathi approving the name of former president of Meghalaya Pradesh Youth Congress (MPYC) Garbriel Wahlang as nominated MDC in the 30-member KHADC.

The approval came a day after the Congress led Meghalaya United Alliance (MUA-II) coalition government recommended Wahlang’s name.

The state government decision came after All Regional Parties Alliance (ARPA) failed to recommend a name the nominated MDCs even after 10 months of its ruling in the KHADC.

With the Governor’s approval, both the ruling ARPA and opposition People’s Democratic Forum (PDF), are now having 15 MDCs each.

While the ARPA comprises of three regional parties – HSPDP with 6 MDCs, UDP – 6 and KHNAM – 3, the PDF is having 10 Congress MDCs, with the support of three Independent MDCs – James Sylliang, Grace Mary Kharpuri and PT Sawkmie, beside 1 NCP.

Wahlang’s nomination requires the nod of Governor KN Tripathi, which is expected to be a formality. Although perfectly within its rights to nominate one member to the district council, ARPA may well question the timing of the government’s decision.

Of five names that were considered, Wahlang was unanimously agreed upon, sources informed.

With the opposition PDF failing to topple the ruling ARPA in the KHADC on Tuesday, the Congress led state government has provided its party with a second chance to pull the carpet of ARPA with the nomination Wahlang in the council.

.Sources informed that the PDF is preparing to test its strength.

The governor is likely to impose administrator rule in the KHADC if the ruling and opposition could not formed the new executive committee.- By Our Reporter