SHILLONG: In a shocking turn of events, Shillong Lok Sabha MP and senior Voice of the People Party (VPP) leader Ricky Andrew J. Syngkon died on Thursday evening.
Syngkon was participating in a friendly football match at Mawlai Mawiong when he unexpectedly fell on the field, reported those present at the time. He was immediately taken to the Mawiong Community Health Centre for emergency intervention before being referred to Dr H. Gordon Roberts Hospital in Jaiaw for further treatment. Despite medical efforts, he could not be saved.
The news sent ripples across Meghalaya’s political landscape. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma expressed profound grief over the loss. In a statement posted on X, he said he was “deeply shocked and profoundly saddened” by the untimely passing of the Shillong MP, describing Syngkon as a sincere and compassionate public representative devoted to the welfare of his people. He extended his condolences to the bereaved family and supporters.
Tributes also came in from political leaders cutting across party affiliations, many recalling how he consistently brought regional matters and community issues to national attention in Parliament.
As the elected representative of the Shillong Lok Sabha seat, Syngkon had earned recognition for his regular interaction with constituents and his visible presence across the Khasi–Jaintia Hills, where he remained closely connected to local concerns.
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Entering Parliament for the first time in 2024, Syngkon had secured a decisive mandate on a VPP ticket, defeating veteran Congress leader Vincent H. Pala by a margin of more than 3.7 lakh votes, an outcome widely viewed as a transformative moment in the state’s electoral history.
Known for his accessibility and vocal support for indigenous rights, his untimely passing leaves a significant void in Meghalaya’s political leadership and within the ranks of the VPP.
Details regarding his funeral and official condolence programmes are expected to be announced soon.