SHILLONG, FEB 11: With the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) election approaching, political parties across Meghalaya have stepped up preparations for the upcoming polls. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Wednesday announced its first list of candidates for the election.

Speaking to media persons after a party meeting held at Pinewood Hotel in Shillong, State NCP President O.K. Sangma said the party is fully prepared to contest the GHADC election and is confident about its prospects.

Sangma informed that the party has declared candidates for six constituencies in the first phase and that additional names will be announced in the coming days.

The candidates announced include:

Mr. Nikijrang A. Sangma – (Selsiggre/Silkigre – subject to confirmation)

Mr. Senggarm K. Sangma – Siju

Mr. Matgrik K. Sangma – Jengjal

Mr. Wansil D. Marak – Baghmara

Mr. Dringbirik D. Sangma – Bolsong

Mr. Babulak Banai Gasuaporg (constituency details to be confirmed)

Miss Sengimathi M.K. Sangma (constituency details to be confirmed)

O.K. Sangma, a former MLA from Kharkutta, said the party is receiving encouraging support from the public. He also indicated that several leaders and supporters from other political parties are likely to join the NCP ahead of the polls.

“We strongly believe that the people will choose development and good governance in the coming election,” Sangma said, adding that the party will contest the GHADC polls with unity and determination.

He further expressed confidence that the NCP would secure a significant number of seats in the Council.