People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) organised a felicitation programme at the Lotha Hoho Ki, Wokha on Friday to felicitate the 10 elected members of the Wokha Town Council (WTC). Among these, seven were from NDPP and three from BJP.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton, advisor of Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan, and advisor to Chief Minister and senior vice president CEB NDPP, Dr. Chumben Murry.
Speaking at the event, Y. Patton emphasised the strong alliance between the NDPP and BJP, and affirmed that the alliance remained robust under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
He said that the alliance follows strict protocols and cautioned that elected representatives against engaging in anti-party activities, as they would be subjected to anti-defection laws and face consequences.
Patton therefore urged the councillors to prioritise development in their wards, particularly the district hospital road, and to submit proposals to legislators.
He also addressed parking issues in Wokha and encouraged the councillors to develop and propose a strategic parking plan.
Patton further called for cooperation and collective participation from citizens and assured that the elected MLAs of Wokha would provide support and cooperation for cohesive development.
Advisor Mhathung Yanthan thanked the public for the peaceful elections and encouraged cooperation with councillors for the town’s development.
He also stressed the need for strategic planning and teamwork, regardless of party affiliation. He further advised the councillors to generate revenue and not only rely on government grants.
Dr. Chumben Murry praised the high voter turnout in the ULB elections and emphasized the importance of councillors to understand their duties and be well-versed with the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023. He also cautioned them to refrain from party-switching to avoid violating anti-defection laws.
Lotha Hoho Chairman Er Mhondamo Ovung expressed regret over the district’s various shortcomings and urged the people to be more responsible citizens. He was hopeful that with the newly elected members, there will be improvements in beautification and better town planning for the district.
The programme chaired by NDPP president Wokha region John Ezung began with an invocation by NDPP treasurer Wokha region John Yanthan. A dedicatory prayer for the elected members was offered by Asst. pastor WTBC Y. Chumbenthung Murry.
Short speeches on behalf of the NDPP and BJP elected members were delivered by Khozamo Lotha and Nzano P. Kikon and vote of thanks by BJP president Wokha unit L. Zaremo Kikon.