Shillong, Sept 8: The Opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) on Friday did a volte face, a day after saying that it was not inimical to working with the BJP after the state Assembly election next year.

On Thursday, UDP senior working president, Bindo M. Lanong while reacting to a query whether the UDP would work with the BJP after the Assembly election next year, said “How can we be inimical to the BJP. It is important and good to have links with the powers that be.”

But on Friday, UDP legislator and general secretary, Jemino Mawthoh issued a statement which said, “As to the post poll scenario, it will naturally be guided by the outcome of the general election.”

“The party has categorically responded that the alliance between the UDP and the HSPDP in Khasi Jaintia Hills and with the GNC in Garo Hills is forming the next government in 2018.The party is confident of playing the key role,” Mawthoh said.

Mawthoh said that the UDP was determined to keep the Congress out of the corridors of power, and its course of action would be determined keeping that objective in mind.