New Deputy Speaker emphasises representation of diverse voices in Assembly
Shillong, Sep 12: Limison D Sangma, the three-time NPP legislator from Raksamgre in West Garo Hills, was on Friday elected unopposed as the new Deputy Speaker of Meghalaya Legislative Assembly. The election took place following resignation of Timothy D Shira from the post recently.
Announcing this, Speaker Thomas A Sangma said, “Since only one nomination paper was received and found valid, I hereby declare Limison D Sangma as having been elected as deputy speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly.”
The new incumbent was escorted by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma to his seat, marking a ceremonial beginning to his new role.
Welcoming Limison D Sangma to the high office, the Speaker said, “I welcome you to this high office. Together, we will strive to maintain the dignity, efficiency, and inclusivity of the Assembly, ensuring it continues to stand as a true temple of democracy for the people of Meghalaya.”
Underlining significance of the post of deputy speaker, he said, “The role of the deputy speaker is not only to assist the speaker in the orderly conduct but to embody the value of neutrality, dignity and democratic process.”
Meanwhile, Limison Sangma expressed gratitude and humility upon being elected unopposed as the deputy speaker.
Thanking the people of Raksamgre, his party, and the chief minister for their support and guidance, he said, “I have learned that true leadership is not about holding power, but about serving the people with humility and integrity.”
He also pledged to ensure that every member, whether from the opposition or the government, has an equal opportunity to be heard and that every voice matters.
Significantly, he emphasised representation of diverse voices of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities, and pledged to make the Assembly a true reflection of democratic ideals.
Addressing the felicitation ceremony, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma congratulated the newly elected Deputy Speaker, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the Assembly effectively.
He acknowledged that debates in the Assembly can become heated, but emphasised that these discussions are driven by a desire to serve the people, not personal interests.
Admiring Limison D Sangma’s humility, gentleness, and fairness, he said, “I am confident under your leadership our newly elected deputy speaker will be able to support and help you run the affairs of the Assembly…”
Congratulating the new Deputy Speaker, the Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma said the election of Limison unopposed is a notable achievement, especially given the veteran’s departure from the chair.
He expressed confidence that the new deputy Speaker would help maintain the Assembly’s legacy of high decorum and ensure continuity in its proceedings.
“He (Limison) is known for honesty, humility and generosity… When he was minister, on my request (chief minister) he agreed to vacate his cabinet seat to induct someone else. It is very difficult to find someone among our political class because sometimes even though the member himself may be willing but we are always under pressure by our own electorate,” Mukul said.
Meanwhile, the outgoing deputy speaker Timothy D Shira congratulated the new incumbent and expressed gratitude to the Assembly for the opportunity to serve.
He advised the new deputy speaker to maintain a non-partisan attitude and give equal opportunities to all members, regardless of party affiliation.
Shira also apologised to members for any unintended hurt or offense caused during his tenure as Deputy Speaker.
