Shillong, Feb 20: Leaders from across the political spectrum paid heartfelt tributes to late VPP Shillong MP Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon in the Assembly on Friday, sharing personal anecdotes and experiences of working with him. They remembered him as a dedicated preacher, teacher, and politician who left a lasting impact.
UDP legislator from West Shillong Paul Lyngdoh said, “I rise to join ranks with the leaders of the House and Opposition to mourn the passing away of an honourable son of the soil. At the same time, while we mourn his untimely demise, let us also celebrate a life well lived.”
Paul recalled his encounters with Dr Syngkon, saying, “I had brief encounters with Dr Ricky, first as Assistant Professor at NEHU, and later in active politics… He was cut from a different cloth, belonged to a profession full of challenges, hate, and hostility, and yet he personified humility, grace, and poise.”
He quoted an aphorism, saying, “Lives’ worth is measured not by its length but by its depth… He did find out why he was born and tried to live that life.”
Paul praised Dr Syngkon’s service, saying, “He came to exemplify that there is still a breed of politicians who enter this profession to serve and not to be served.” He concluded, expressing his condolences to Dr Syngkon’s family.
Power Minister and UDP chief Metbah Lyngdoh said, “I received a message from some of my friends which says ‘too young to die’. I am sure that all of us will agree with this message when it comes to the age of Dr Ricky Syngkon.”
Metbah expressed disappointment that Dr Syngkon’s tenure was cut short, saying, “The people of Shillong constituency had elected him for a term of five years, expecting him to deliver, but for just one year and nine months, he is no more.”
He highlighted Dr Syngkon’s dedication and integrity, saying, “He has performed to the best he could in his assignments… He was a man of integrity, honest, with strong moral principles, always expressing with positive motives.”
The UDP chief also praised Dr Syngkon’s meeting with the Chief Minister, saying, “I am pleased to hear from the CM about the meeting they had… He had good motives for the people of the state.”
He concluded, “I would like to express my deepest condolences to all family members of Dr Ricky and we pray that God grant them strength and support them at this time of crisis”
NPP Nongpoh MLA Celestine Lyngdoh urged people to celebrate Dr Syngkon achievements rather than mourn his passing.
“When we look at the life of Dr Ricky, in a way, we should not feel that sad rather we should celebrate his achievements in academic and public life,” Lyngdoh said.
He recalled a conversation with Dr Syngkon during the 2023 assembly elections, saying, “Dr Ricky tapped my shoulder and said, ‘lada jop u Dr Kot ne jop u Dr briew,’ meaning if either of us wins, we should work hard for the benefit of our people.”
Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla paid tribute to late Shillong MP Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon, expressing shock at his passing.
He recalled Dr Syngkon’s connection with his roots, saying, “A couple of days ago, he was in Jowai chairing the DISHA meeting. He always spoke in Pnar, and that is how people connected with him.”
Shylla described Dr Syngkon as “a bridge builder, dedicated public servant, and good human being who touched every life”.
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