Shillong, Sept 10: The United Democratic Party (UDP) on Thursday said it is open to dialogue or a change in leadership, provided members raise their concerns directly with party leaders.
UDP general secretary Titosstarwell Chyne said positions within the party are not personal property and that any disgruntled members should come forward and make their concerns known. His remarks come amid speculation that some members are unhappy with the party and its leadership and are ready to join hands with the BJP.
Chyne confirmed that the party has not received any official communication regarding defections. “No official letter or information has come from any MLA till today,” he said.
He said his attempts to seek clarity from the MLAs had not yielded any results. “I have met and called them many times. They have not given any clear picture. They neither confirmed nor denied shifting to the BJP,” Chyne said.
Asked whether the alleged split within the party was partly due to president Metbah Lyngdoh, Chyne said, “It is very easy to blame. If there is dissatisfaction about me or the president, it should be raised directly. These posts are not personal property. It is for the party. If we are the reason for them wanting to leave, we are ready to step down to strengthen the party.”
He said the party has convened an emergency meeting of the Central Executive Committee (CEC) on Friday, which also marks the party’s foundation day.
“We have invited all MLAs, MDCs and CEC members,” he said.
