The ensuing bye-election campaign for 10th Northern Angami 1 assembly constituency kicked started on Saturday when Bayavü Area Panchayat (BAP) organised a common platform campaign for both the aspiring candidates at indoor stadium Bayavü Colony, Kohima.
Former chief minister, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu with NPF ticket would be contesting the election against an independent candidate, Kekhrie Yhome in the bye-election scheduled to be held on July 29.
Though the platform was open for both the candidates, Dr. Shürhozelie could not make it due to other engagements and was represented by Khuzholuzo Nienu, MLA.
In his speech, candidate, Kekhrie Yhome made it clear that he would not indulge in “buying votes” or indulge in “dirty politics” and that he would stand on the principle of clean election.
Yhome appealed all the electors to give him a chance to see the change that he would do for the people and state. He said the seat should not be reserved for any particular person but give to other as well on trail basis for assessment.
He also asked the voters to vote for the person that could bring development and change in the society.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Shürhozelie, Khuzholuzo Nienu said 10th Northern Angami -1 was represented by a “legend” and former chief minister and should keep the prestige of the constituency.
He said Dr. Shürhozelie in his five months and 28 days as chief minister of Nagaland has a record of “nil corruption” and has exhibited in practical the sincerity, punctuality and hard working.
Referring to the ongoing political turmoil, Khuzholuzo urged the voters not to leave Dr. Shürhozelie in “bad times” while adding that the former chief minister have strong commitment to check corruption including Pillai’s case, PDS scam and oil adulteration issue.
In his short speech, BAP chairman, Khinyi Woch said the purpose of the providing common platform to both the candidates was to discourage “dirty politics” and encourage the voters to opt for “clean election”.
He informed that the colony has 2570 eligible voters, 8000 population with 140 households. Woch informed that no party office would be allowed to open in the colony and urged the colony residents follow “one man, one vote”.
Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) youth director, Vikuo Rhi, spoke on importance of clean election and asked the voters to do away with corruption.
He reminded the gathering that the clean election initiative of NBCC was people’s movement and that the church has no hidden agenda for any candidate.
Rhi encouraged the voters to tell and stand for truth and bring positive change. He also reminded that clean election effort was to usher social reformation and exercise the moral right to elect a leader without corruption.
The programme was led by BAP general secretary, Kechangulie Kense, innovation prayer said by Central Baptist Church, Pastor Neisakuolie Kesiyie while of vote of thanks was proposed by BAP judicial secretary, Yesonu.
The hall packed programme was attended by NPF working president, Huskha Yepthomi, NPF party workers, former PRO of chief minister Pele Khezhie, colony residents and others.