Hon. Edmond Plangnan Zungdet has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking a major political development in Pankshin Local Government Area and the state at large. His decision brings to an end years of active participation and loyalty to the party.
The resignation was announced during a well-attended stakeholders’ meeting with the executive members of Chip Federal Ward in Pankshin LGA. The gathering brought together party leaders, supporters, and stakeholders who were keen to hear firsthand the reasons behind his decision.
The atmosphere at the meeting was emotional, as many party members expressed shock and disappointment over his departure. Some supporters were visibly moved, reflecting the strong political ties and relationships he had built within the party over the years.
Hon. Zungdet, while addressing the gathering, described the decision to leave the PDP as one of the most difficult choices of his political career. He recalled his long-standing commitment to the party and the values it once represented.
He explained that the decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, community leaders, and supporters across his constituency. According to him, these engagements helped shape his understanding of the current political realities.
The former PDP stalwart stated that his resignation was taken in the general interest of his people, whom he said remain his top priority. He emphasized that his loyalty lies with the welfare and progress of the community he represents.
Hon. Zungdet pointed to persistent internal challenges within the PDP as a major factor influencing his decision. He noted that unresolved disputes and internal divisions had continued to weaken the party’s cohesion.
He also expressed concern over the numerous legal encumbrances that have continued to trail the party, describing them as distractions that hinder effective political engagement. He said such issues have made it difficult for members to focus on service delivery.
At the same stakeholders’ meeting, other prominent members of the PDP also announced their resignations, further underscoring the gravity of the situation within the party. Their decisions followed similar concerns raised about the party’s internal affairs.
Among those who resigned was Hon. Barr. Polycarp Dama Datau, the Adviser to the Governor on Legal Matters, whose exit added significant weight to the development. His resignation drew strong reactions from party members present.
Before his resignation from the PDP, Hon. Zungdet currently serves as the Director General of Youth for the Greater Together movement and is the Chairman of the Youth Advisory Council of the Mutfwang/Piyo Campaign Organization. In addition, he chairs the Kangmun PDP Stakeholders Forum, where he plays a key role in mobilizing party members at the grassroots. He is also the Chairman of the BCM Youth Network, further demonstrating his strong commitment to youth engagement, leadership development, and political organization.
Also resigning were Hon. Ziphion Terkop, the Liaison Officer to the Governor, and Hon. Grace Dongkum, the Commissioner of Finance. Their departure further highlighted the scale of dissatisfaction within the party ranks.
Many party faithful who spoke at the meeting called for decisive action, stressing that the ongoing legal and internal challenges posed serious threats to the PDP’s stability. They warned that failure to address these issues could lead to further defections and weakening of the party.
