Shillong, May 31: The nomination of ruling NPP’s candidate for Meghalaya’s lone Rajya Sabha seat is going to witness hectic parleys this week, ahead of the polls scheduled for June 18.
The tenure of current incumbent and senior National People’s Party (NPP) leader Dr WR Kharlukhi is set to expire on June 21. He, however, has repeatedly indicated that he does not intend to seek another term.
The filing of nominations will open on June 1 and June 8 is the last date of nomination.
Three names under consideration for the NPP nomination, according to sources, are: former cabinet minister James PK Sangma, former Mawsynram MLA HM Shangpliang and former minister Hamletson Dohling.
Given its strength in assembly, political observers believe the NPP is in a comfortable position to retain the seat.
Overall, James Sangma is seen as the frontrunner who has himself expressed his desire for the position.
The NPP in Garo Hills is also firmly in favour of sending James Sangma to the Rajya Sabha, stressing on the need for an assertive voice in the Parliament.
The name of Himalaya Muktan Shangpliang has also generated buzz in recent times. According to sources, high-level meetings have already taken place within the party with a growing consensus building in favour of Shangpliang.
Hamlet Dohling, a former minister, is the latest to join the list of names doing the rounds.
Despite the active speculation, the party leadership has been careful to keep its cards close.
Recently, MDA Government Spokesperson Wailadmiki Shylla acknowledged that four or five names have come forward for the Rajya Sabha seat but confirmed the decision is yet to be taken.
