Shillong, Aug 23: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said that partners of the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) coalition are committed and firmed that the present government will last its full term and bring development to the state.

Responding to a query with regards to the MDA partners fighting against each other in the bye election to Ranikor constituency, Conrad said, “That is the beauty of democracy. You can be in the government together, and yet when it comes to political interest, we as individual party, do look at our own interest. We fight but when it comes to governance and running the state, we are committed and firmed that this government will continue and will bring development to the state.”

Stating that this kind of election will come and go, he reiterated that the partners would ensure continuity of the government and ensure that the state goes to the path of development.

NPP candidate and five-time MLA Martin M Danggo is fight in Ranikor with candidates of the MDA partners – Pius Marweiñ of the United Democratic Party (UDP) and PN Syiem of the People’s Democratic Front (PDF), besides the opposition Congress candidate, Jackuish Sangma.

But Conrad got the support of all MDA partners in South Tura.

“I can assure you that West Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills will see a lot of changes in term of its connectivity in the coming years,” the Chief Minister said, and exuded confidence that the people of South Tura will elect him as their MLA. “We are sure of winning the seat (South Tura) and we need not worry about it at all. I am confident that the people of Tura will give me an opportunity to work as an MLA and they are also excited that the CM will be from South Tura.”

Admitting that holding of bye-elections could be avoided, but the chief minister said, it is good that both the bye-elections in Ranikor and South Tura happened together.

“To some extent when elections are there, there is certain effect on overall governance. Yes it could be avoided, but certain things are unavoidable. Therefore, that is the situation and we have to face it.”

He also admitted that both seats are important for the NPP.