3-day mourning for former Meghalaya CM Lapang

Shillong: A three-day state mourning began on Saturday as a mark of respect to four-time former CM Donwa Dethwelson Lapang, who passed away at 96 in a private hospital in the city on Sept 12.An official notification said during the mourning period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast in all govt establishments across the state, and no official entertainment will be held.A state funeral will be held at Students’ Field, Jaiaw, on Monday at 1 pm following which the mortal remains of the late leader would be laid to rest at the Jaiaw Presbyterian Church cemetery at Weiking locality in the city.The veteran public leader, who was respectfully referred to as ‘Maheh’, is survived by his wife, Amethyst Lynda J Blah, and two children.In his condolence message, CM Conrad K Sangma said, “Maheh Lapang was a true leader of the people whose commitment to public service spanned decades. Elected chief minister four times, he dedicated his life to the welfare and progress of the state. His role in shaping Ri Bhoi District remains unforgettable”.Describing Lapang as a “statesman with a heart to serve”, the CM said his legacy would live on in the lives he touched and the path he paved for Meghalaya’s future. The former CM, who had left Congress to join the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) and took up assignment as adviser to the state govt, was described by Conrad, who is also president of the NPP, as a “guiding light” within the party.