Shillong, Aug 16: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed “great sorrow” over the demise of former Chief Minister Salseng C Marak who passed away on Friday morning at Tura Civil Hospital due to old-age related ailments.

Remembering Marak as a “household name in the field of politics in Garo Hills” and a “much respected leader”, Sangma said politicians cutting across political lines respected the late leader.

Marak became the CM when the state was going through political instability during the 1990s when regional forces were the kingmakers in government formation or breakdowns.

Despite the difficult times, Sangma said, the late political leader held the CM’s post from 1993 to 1998 and became the first leader to serve a full five year term without changing party – the Congress.

“In a system where politics has become synonymous with corruption and inefficiency, Late SC Marak was a political figure who maintained his integrity fighting all odds thus earning the name of Mr. Clean pursuing relentlessly for a corruption free and progressive Meghalaya,” Sangma said in a statement.

Marak as the Chief Minister led the government and the state with “strong leadership” qualities and “political acumen” and even after retirement from politics he remained active and shared his knowledge and wisdom for the community and the society at large, Sangma added.

Marak represented Resubelpara constituency in North Garo Hills from 1970s till 2008 and then again in 2013. During his long tenure as the MLA of Resubelpara, Marak worked for the upliftment and amelioration of his constituency with dedication and commitment, Sangma said.

Marak was also the President of Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee in 2003 and remained loyal to the party till the end.

“The people of Resubelpara and the state as a whole have lost a wise and erudite leader whose honesty, uprightness and integrity have made him a much loved leader. His life teaches us the core values of statesmanship, loyalty and humility and is an inspiration to the current breed of politicians,” Sangma said.

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