Kohima Municipal Council elects new chairperson, deputy chairperson

Neibodzelie Solo, councillor of PWD panchayat Ward-11, has been elected as the chairperson of Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) while Thenusou Sekhose Yhome, councillor representing Ward 6, has been elected as the deputy chairperson.
The election was held in the conference hall of the office of the deputy commissioner (DC) Kohima under the provisions of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2023. DC Kohima B. Henok Buchem, who presided over voting process, announced the results and congratulated the newly elected leaders. DC expressed confidence they would strengthen urban governance and civic administration.
Following the election, the new leadership outlined their key priorities, with a strong focus on addressing urban infrastructure gaps and promoting community-oriented initiatives.
They reaffirmed their commitment to serving the citizens of Kohima and ensuring inclusive development across the municipal area. Addressing the media, the newly elected leaders acknowledged that internal challenges were part of democratic functioning. However, they stated that such issues have been resolved with the support of their party colleagues, paving the way for a balanced and united approach moving forward.
A major concern raised by the leadership was the non-payment of salaries to KMC staff for the past six months. They attributed this to limited revenue generation, particularly after the closure of tollgate collections. While some government assistance has been received and partially disbursed, the leadership emphasized the urgent need to explore sustainable revenue sources and work towards achieving greater financial self-sufficiency for KMC.
They also highlighted challenges arising from limited municipal assets and assured that concerted efforts were being made to enhance revenue generation.
Regarding a past theft incident at the KMC office, the leaders stated that the matter has been resolved and adequate preventive measures have already been put in place.
Responding to allegations of internal discord and financial irregularities, they clarified that earlier concerns have been addressed internally through collective decision-making.
The newly elected leaders expressed confidence in steering the KMC forward with unity, accountability, and a renewed focus on development and improved civic services.
Out of 19 elected councillors, 16 were present and participated in the voting process, while three were absent on health grounds. The quorum requirement under the Act was duly fulfilled. All 16 councillors present voted in favour of both candidates.
Meanwhile, NPF 9 Kohima Assembly Constituency president Metekhrielie Mejura congratulated the newly elected chairperson, deputy chairperson, and all councillors. He also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing members and called for unity across party lines for the overall welfare of the people of Kohima.