The Opposition Voice of the People’s Party will convene after the ongoing Budget Session of the Assembly to deliberate on its strategy for the impending by-election to the Shillong Parliamentary seat, with party president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit asserting that the leadership’s immediate priority remains the current legislative business.
Stating that the party is still in a period of mourning following the sudden demise of its sitting MP, Basaiawmoit said a considered decision would be taken once the session concludes.
“Soon we will be meeting as a party and as of now (to discuss about the impending by election to the Shillong Parliamentary seat) as of now we are still in the mourning period, you understand the loss. During the assembly session we need first to concentrate on the ongoing Budget Session, so may be after the budget session the party leaders will meet and discuss about this matter, if we feel time is needed to inform the press we will definitely inform.”
When asked whether a member of the late MP’s family would be fielded as the party’s candidate, Basaiawmoit maintained that no decision has been taken.
“As of now we will not be able to say anything unless we discuss as a party.”
The party has yet to initiate formal consultations as the Shillong Lok Sabha constituency remains vacant following the sudden demise of Ricky AJ Syngkon. The 54-year-old MP passed away on February 19, 2026, after suffering a cardiac arrest while playing futsal.
Syngkon had secured the seat in the 2024 general election, defeating Vincent Pala of the Indian National Congress, marking a significant electoral breakthrough for the regional outfit.
VPP to Meet After Budget Session to Decide on Shillong By-Election Candidate
