Shillong: On the exit of eight UDP MLAs, Kharngapkynta said the development would not necessarily affect the party’s prospects, as the final decision rests with the electorate.
Citing the 2024 Lok Sabha election, he said the UDP had fielded a candidate with the backing of 14 MLAs (12 from the UDP and two from the HSPDP) but the candidate suffered a heavy defeat.
In contrast, VPP candidate Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon, who had the backing of only four MLAs, won the election by a substantial margin.
“This shows that elections are decided by the people, not by the number of MLAs backing a candidate,” he said.
Kharngapkynta also said that, as an individual, he is already known across the Khasi-Jaintia region and therefore does not consider large public meetings essential.
He said while other political parties organise rallies and public meetings across different areas to mobilise voters, he believes such gatherings do not determine electoral outcomes, as the final decision rests with the wisdom of the electorate.
Kharngapkynta said his work as a lawyer, through which he has assisted many people, and his past association as a leader of the KSU have made him known to the public.
“People know me and recognise me. Ultimately, the decision rests with them,” he said.
