Staff Reporter/Correspondent
DIMAPUR/WOKHA, JUN 3 (NPN): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Naga People’s Front (NPF) have officially launched their campaigns for the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) by-elections in Chümoukedima and Wokha respectively, with both parties declaring their candidates and rallying support from party workers and the public.
In Chümoukedima, the BJP held a declaration programme for its official candidate Kezhanguto Zhotso for Ward-11, scheduled for polls on June 16. Addressing the gathering, State BJP president Benjamin Yepthomi underscored the party’s commitment to youth empowerment, recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance to bring one lakh youth into active politics. He described the declaration as a fulfilment of that vision and reaffirmed the party’s belief in nurturing young leadership.
Yepthomi expressed gratitude to the candidate for stepping forward, noting that while many speak of changing the system, only a few take concrete steps. He said the nominee represents the aspirations of Ward-11 and reiterated BJP’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people. On the issue of both BJP and its alliance partner NPF contesting the seat, he clarified that the party had opted for a “friendly contest” given the circumstances, urging that such democratic exercises be viewed in the right spirit. He called upon voters to support the BJP nominee and give the party an opportunity to deliver, particularly in implementing central government schemes at the grassroots.
Minister for PHED and Cooperation Jacob Zhimomi described the candidate as dynamic, trustworthy and energetic, with a clear vision for youth development. He explained that ticket allocation follows a structured process involving national-level decisions based on state inputs. Reiterating the friendly contest between NPF and BJP, he emphasized that there were no hard feelings between alliance partners and termed the contest as one of sportsmanship. He highlighted the need for emerging leadership while continuing to respect senior leaders, and pointed to BJP’s stature as the world’s largest political party, stressing coordinated efforts between Centre and states.
Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Elections, H. Tovihoto Ayemi urged voters to carefully consider which candidate would best serve the interests of the ward. He said the BJP nominee was selected after thorough consideration and not merely for formality, describing him as a capable young leader. He encouraged citizens of Ward-11 to extend their support to the BJP candidate.
In his address, Zhotso expressed gratitude to Ward-11 residents, pledging transparency, accessibility and a strong stand against substance abuse among youth. Earlier, the programme was chaired by State BJP spokesperson, Sedevilie Angami, invocation by pastor, Kuzhami Baptist Church, Dr Kewe Therie, and welcome address by youth advisor, Ward 11, Mhalezosielie Rame, while vote of thanks was offered by BJP Chümoukedima Unit president, Khriesavilie Yhoshü, and benediction offered by senior pastor, ABC Block IV, Rev Asselie Krose.
Meanwhile, in Wokha, the NPF Division launched its campaign for Ward-8 (Tsumang B) under the Wokha Town Council, declaring Ar. Aling Lotha as its candidate. NPF MLA and Central Executive Council member Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe termed the by-election significant in light of the merger of NDPP and NCP with NPF, urging party workers to maintain unity and avoid anti-party activities.
Former MLA Dr. Chumben Murry highlighted the candidate’s professional background as an architect, stating it would aid in promoting planned urban development. He also called for greater youth involvement in politics and suggested seminars on Viksit Bharat to inspire ideas for a progressive Nagaland.
Candidate Ar. Aling Lotha thanked party leaders and residents for their support, recalling his late father’s legacy and assuring to work for the welfare and development of the ward. Earlier, COB vice president and Wokha Division in-charge, John Ezung called on party workers to remain united and committed to securing victory in the by-election. He cautioned supporters against overconfidence and emphasised the importance of collective effort throughout the campaign.
COB member Grace Murry also urged party supporters to expand the party’s outreach by engaging friends, relatives and well-wishers, stating that cooperation at the grassroots level would be crucial to the campaign’s success.
The programme was chaired by NPF Wokha Division president L. Meribemo Kinghen, while working president Lily Kikon pronounced the invocation. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by NPF Youth Wing president Amos Odyuo.