Shillong, Apr 20: The VPP has expelled its member Avner Pariat on Saturday.
“As directed by the State Executive Committee, we the undersigned, wish to inform you, that the party, has taken serious note of your recent statements made against the party in favour of another political party through social media platform which is unbecoming for a member of the State Executive Committee.Your statements and behaviour have damaged the image of the party and undermined our efforts to strengthen the party.This act of indiscipline on your part has left us with no option but to expel you from the party with immediate effect, said a statement issued by Kara H. Shen, Chairman, Disciplinary Committee and Grossper Ryntathiang Secretary, Disciplinary Committee.
Resignation letter of Avner
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
Dear Party members,
It is with a heavy heart that I write this letter of resignation from the Voice of the People Party (VPP). My decision is not one of haste, but of deep reflection.
I joined the VPP with the belief that it stood for positive change which is the need of the hour. However, as time has passed, I have become increasingly disillusioned by the direction the party has taken.
The party’s shift towards Religious Fanaticism has been particularly troubling for me as I was never raised (though I come from a long line of servants of the Presbyterian Church) to be overcome by religious fervour. The promise of progress that once inspired me to join this party has been replaced by a regressive agenda that I can no longer support in good conscience.
Many supporters have urged me to stay silent and to speak out only once I am MDC (which I have a strong chance of winning) but it is against my principles to be duplicitous. Hence, I feel it is better to exit gracefully while the party is still at its high point rather than at its nadir.
I will retire – for the time being – from state electoral politics which has become so divisive and cruel. I was known for being an independent critic and I will return to this role as I feel it is the best fit for me as I endeavour to expand the minds and ideas of the people. I will not join any other political party in the immediate future so my silence about party meetings and discussions is guaranteed. Instead, I will return to my pen, and planning table, as I seek out a future for the state through my own Socialist ideals.
I want to thank the party for the opportunities and experiences that I have had during my time. I have met many wonderful people and learned a great deal, and for that, I will always be grateful.
Please consider this letter as my formal resignation, effective immediately. I wish the party all the best in its future endeavours.
Sincerely,
Avner Medon Pariat
When contacted Pariat said, “This letter was drafted and given to party functionaries on the 16th April but so as not to disrupt their election campaign the official submission was to be done after Lok Sabha Election 2024”.
To another query on the allegation by the VPP that he was supporting another political party, Pariat said, “Ask them ( VPP) for the social media post, I’ve no idea”.
