Conrad K Sangma, National President of the NPP and Chief Minister of Meghalaya, campaigns in support of party candidate I Abenjang at Longkhum village on April 2.
Morung Express News
Longkhum | April 2
National People’s Party (NPP) National President and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday highlighted the party’s commitment to safeguarding indigenous identity while calling for unity and service-oriented politics at a campaign rally for the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency by-election held at Longkhum Community Hall.
Addressing villagers, party workers and supporters, Sangma said the NPP was founded on the principle of protecting the interests of tribal and indigenous communities across the Northeast. Citing an example from Meghalaya, he stated that the party had made ST certificates mandatory for candidates contesting district council elections, asserting that “the principle of our identity… drives us till today.”
Emphasising the ethos of public service, Sangma said politics should not be pursued for power or personal gain. “Don’t enter politics for position or money… enter politics only to serve the people,” he said, adding that leadership must be guided by the needs and welfare of the people.
Highlighting the need for greater regional cohesion, he observed that despite the Northeast’s potential, the region often lacks a unified platform. “We don’t have that voice… we don’t have that unity,” he said, stressing that the NPP seeks to bring people together and create opportunities through collective effort.
Sangma also drew attention to the demographic strength of the region, noting that the Northeast is among the youngest in the country. Describing youth as both the “greatest strength and challenge,” he urged leaders and society to create avenues for meaningful engagement and employment.
Referring to local initiatives, he expressed appreciation for community-led efforts such as the Longkhum Cherry Blossom Festival, suggesting that such initiatives could be strengthened to generate livelihoods and economic opportunities.
Earlier, NPP candidate I Abenjang appealed to voters to support the party’s vision, stating that he was committed to serving the people of Koridang with sincerity. “I am not a migratory bird… I am here to serve the people,” he said, asserting that his candidature was rooted in long-term commitment rather than electoral convenience.
Emphasising that “truth shall prevail,” Abenjang said he was contesting the election on principles of integrity, while highlighting the party’s focus on youth empowerment, support for women and the underprivileged, and development in agriculture and allied sectors. He also called for a “political revival” beginning from Koridang, urging voters to exercise their mandate in the April 9 by-election.
Sangma, meanwhile, expressed confidence in the party’s prospects, stating that the rally could mark the beginning of a positive journey for the NPP in the constituency, and urged party workers and supporters to remain committed to the principle of service.
