The National People’s Party (NPP) held its ticket distribution ceremony on June 10 at the residence of Dr. Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhutso, MLA for the 9th Kohima Town Assembly Constituency. The party gave away tickets to 10 candidates.
Dr. Ato, who is also the State NPP working president, emphasized that voting for any NPP candidate was akin to voting for him personally. He highlighted the party’s national presence, with MLAs in various states across India, and reiterated the NPP’s commitment to development and peace. Rhutso also expressed gratitude to chief minister Neiphiu Rio, for including NPP in the opposition-less government, thus providing them a legislative platform.
Dr. Rhutso assured the candidates that the NPP was not fighting for power but for peace and development. Speaking to the media, Dr. Ato addressed concerns about NPP fielding candidates in constituencies held NDPP and BJP, despite being part of an opposition-less government. He emphasized the importance of collaboration over competition, stating, “When it comes to party, we are all under the able leadership of Neiphiu Rio, he is all out for peace and development so is our party. So in spite of fighting against parties, whoever wins will work with the leaders for our people.” The event began with an invocation by Nagamese Union, CRC Pastor Michael, and concluded with a vote of thanks from the convenor of the ULB Election Committee 2024, Arkeo Medom.
NDPP Mokokchung region: Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) Mokokchung region held its oath-taking and ticket distribution ceremony for the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) elections 2024 at the NDPP office.
NDPP working president and Region Election Committee Convener, N. Bendang Jamir, delivered the introductory speech. He urged the ticket recipients to uphold the party’s principles and ideologies, emphasizing that the candidates will represent the image and reflection of the NDPP. Jamir highlighted the significance of contesting the ULB elections under a new Act, calling it a great opportunity. He cautioned candidates to familiarize themselves with the Act to avoid challenges and advised seeking guidance from senior members.
NDPP Mokokchung region president Mangyangnungba led the oath-taking ceremony before distributing the tickets. Lanuakum from Salangtem ward delivered a speech on behalf of the candidates. Following the ceremony, numerous candidates filed their nomination papers for the ULB election at the ARO office in Mokokchung. The following candidates include 29 for Mokokchung Municipal Council, 12 for Mangkolemba Town Council, 10 for Tuli Town Council and four for Changtongya Town Council.
NDPP Wokha region: NDPP Wokha region held their ticket ceremony for the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) election 2024 at Hammock Resort, Wokha. Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan, emphasized the importance of women’s involvement and expressed optimism about the developments their wisdom could bring. He praised NDPP as a party of action, reflecting its motto, “Facts non verba.” Yanthan noted that tickets were awarded based on a thorough survey of eligibility and encouraged everyone to strive for victory and bring pride to the party.
Former Minister Dr. Chumben Murry extended his greetings and congratulated the candidates on receiving the party ticket. He emphasized that women’s participation in decision-making processes would bring about significant changes. Dr. Murry urged candidates to represent the party well, work hard, and win the elections. He also expressed hope that Wokha would soon become a municipal ward, noting that the ULB elections, occurring after two decades, would lead to new developments and increased transparency.
NDPP Wokha region president John Ezung stated that the party would work vigorously to ensure the candidates’ success in the elections. A total of 11 candidates received the NDPP ticket– five women (2 from the general ward and 3 reserved wards) and six men. ULB candidates Lithungo Murry and Grace Murry delivered speeches on behalf of the candidates. The declaration of candidature and the oath of allegiance were administered by NDPP convenor T.L. Merry.
NDPP Phek region: NDPP Phek region handed over party tickets to 40 candidates for the upcoming Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) election. The distribution ceremony was held at the Town Council Hall in Phek.
Addressing the gathering, Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye, discussed the previous municipal act’s contentious issues, which had brought the state to a standstill. He highlighted the current government’s efforts in amending and passing the new Nagaland Municipal Act, paving the way for the scheduled ULB elections. Kenye emphasized the importance of local self-governance and development that municipalities and town councils will bring.
He expressed delight over the 33% women reservation, underscoring Nagas’ respect for gender equality. Kenye warned the candidates about anti-defection activities, urging them to maintain integrity and remain steadfast. He called for hard work and commitment to ensure the party’s victory. Advisor CAWD and Taxes, Kudecho Khamo, lauded chief minister Neiphiu Rio-led government for passing the new act, which had previously caused significant disruptions.
He noted that the act was well-received, and the ULB elections are scheduled in the coming weeks. Khamo informed that elections would be conducted in four towns within Phek district– Meluri (9 seats), Chozuba (9 seats), Pfütsero (11 seats), and Phek (11 seats), with NDPP awarding tickets for all these seats. He advised candidates to uphold their visions, commitment to the electorates, and party principles to achieve victory. Advisor NRE and NSDMA, Z Nyusietho Nyuthe, spoke about public leadership, urging the candidates to serve the public efficiently and empower the people.
Vice-president K Puro, CEB NDPP, and Nuzota Swuro, Convenor, ULB Election Committee, Phek Region, also delivered speeches. Neikhrolo Khalo, President NDPP Phek Region, gave the welcome address, and Dr. K Hoshi, General Secretary CEB, chaired the program.