UDP Grapples with Cabinet Reshuffle Tensions Ahead of Key Meeting in Meghalaya

The United Democratic Party (UDP) is bracing for a critical Parliamentary Party meeting amid escalating tensions over a potential power-sharing reshuffle in its two Cabinet berths within the Conrad K Sangma-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government.

The outcome could significantly alter the coalition’s dynamics.

Sources indicate that Urban Affairs Minister Paul Lyngdoh and Social Welfare Minister Kyrmen Shylla face pressure to relinquish their positions to accommodate UDP president and Mairang MLA Metbah Lyngdoh and Amlarem MLA Lahkmen Rymbui. If implemented, this reshuffle would mark a major shake-up in the UDP’s Cabinet representation.

However, the proposal has sparked internal discord. During a lengthy party discussion on Friday, a UDP Cabinet minister firmly opposed the idea of a rotational arrangement, arguing that no formal two-and-a-half-year power-sharing agreement was ever endorsed by the party’s 12 MLAs. The minister stated that any changes should be merit-based rather than arbitrary, rejecting a mechanical rotation.

The disagreement highlights a deepening divide within the UDP leadership. While some factions advocate for rotation to include senior leaders like the party president, others view the move as destabilising and unfair, particularly since the party had previously denied the existence of any such deal.

Originally planned for Sunday, the broader Cabinet reshuffle was postponed due to the passing of veteran leader D.D. Lapang and the subsequent three-day state mourning declared by the MDA government. Sources now suggest the reshuffle is likely to occur on Tuesday.