AGP all set to 'redeem' itself with a new chief

Guwahati, Aug 27 (UNI) Assam Gana Parishad(AGP), the main Opposition in that state, is gearing up for their presidential election slated for August 30.

As a part of their present strategy, AGP is trying to emerge as the major party in the state by clubbing all non-Congress and non-BJP parties.

''Our main aim is to strengthen the party and get every one on board and be the main party of Assam by uniting all non-Congress and non-BJP forces,'' said party chief Brindabon Goswami.

The party is broadly divided into two camps. One led by Mr Goswami, while the other by Chandra Mohan Patowary, a four-time MLA and two-time minister.

''We want a new leadership, which can carry forward the party's image in the changing and difficult situation and establish it as the main political party of Assam. For that everyone from the regional camps should come together,'' said Mr Patowary.

Till late last night, conventions of various district committees were on and both the camps were trying hard to push their own representaitve.

According to AGP insiders, presently Mr Goswami is ahead in the race.

Despite dissension within the party completely, there are 24 AGP MLAs in the state assembly.

The AGP has 52 district units. Each of the district committees of the party will send eight delegates to the party conference, while each of the frontal organisations will send seven delegates to it.

The party MLAs, MPs and the members of its outgoing central executive committee are also entitled to attend the conference. In all, there will be around 460 delegates taking part in the conference of the party, said the sources.

UNI