SHILLONG, OCT 28: National People’s Party (NPP) president and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday described Paul Lyngdoh and Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar as old friends rather than new members, citing their longstanding association with the party.
Welcoming the two former UDP legislators during their formal induction, in the presence of Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, Sangma said their shared history made the occasion personally significant.
“I don’t want to call them new because we have a very old history. The word ‘new’ does not do justice to the friendship and relationship we have shared,” he said.
Sangma recalled a photograph from August 24, 2012, taken at the NPP’s former office in Lachumiere, Shillong, which showed Renikton among the gathering on the day the party was formed in Meghalaya.
He said Nujorki Sungoh, who is undergoing medical check-ups, would formally join the party in a few days.
Highlighting the NPP’s strength, Sangma said teamwork, humility and mutual understanding were key to the party’s success. He acknowledged that disagreements existed within the party and government but said decisions were guided by their impact on the people.
He also urged party members to remain humble and committed to public service, regardless of their position.
“When you choose to work for the party, you are choosing to commit yourself to the service of the people. That should be your guiding principle,” he said.
