Shillong Jan 4: KHADC executive member and MDC of Laitumkrah-Malki constituency Neil Antonio War said that he is seeking re-election on UDP ticket and denounced rumours spread by his opponents that he would not contest the upcoming elections slated for February 27 as he was not in good health.

“I will contest the elections. I will file my nomination papers on Thursday,” War told reporters on Monday.

The three-time sitting MDC admitted that his family did tell him not to contest.

“But I have decided to contest again after my supporters have assured to work hard. I have been with the people of my constituency for the past 15 years and I have every reason to trust them,” he said.

UDP senior working president Bindo M Lanong slammed the opponents for misleading the people of the constituency with their mis-information campaign. “War is our official candidate and he is contesting from Laitumkhrah-Malki,” he said while informing that the party have geared up its preparation for the district council polls.

He informed that the UDP will officially release its election manifesto within this week.

“We want to tell the people that the party not only mean business but will work to bring positive change in all aspects of the functioning of the district councils,” Lanong said.

Stating that unlike the Panchayati Raj system which mostly focuses for development purpose, he however said the autonomous district councils are not only for development but also to preserve the customary practices of the indigenous community.

Lanong said that the party would also pursue its demand for introduction of anti-defection law to prevent elected members from switching their allegiance from one party to another besides strengthening the village courts at the grass root level.