State Government to Consider Nominations for Eastern Nagaland: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio
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| Neiphiu Rio |
On Friday, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio hosted a felicitation ceremony at Naithu Resort for the newly elected councillors of Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) and East Dimapur Town Council (EDTC).
In his address, Rio discussed the issue of the Eastern Nagaland areas' non-participation in the urban local bodies (ULBs) elections, expressing his regret over their absence in the polls. He revealed that, given the lack of elections in these regions, the government is contemplating appointing nominated members to the town councils to support local development.
"We will not leave them isolated. We intend to involve them and provide grants to facilitate development," Rio stated. He also addressed the support of two NPP candidates for the NDPP and the merger of two Independent members, resulting in 15 NDPP councillors in the 23-member DMC. He clarified that this merger was possible due to the absence of an anti-defection law for ULBs. However, he indicated the government's interest in establishing such a law to ensure political stability.
Rio described the felicitation event as a joyous occasion, praising the councillors and party leaders for their success in the recent ULB elections. He extended congratulations to all involved for their efforts, which led to a significant victory for the NDPP across the state. He urged the newly-elected members to embrace the NDPP’s ideology, particularly those who had recently joined, and highlighted the party's dedication to good governance.
Rio reminded the councillors that they now represent the party at the grassroots level and that their commitment and hard work will shape the party's future. He assured them that the state government would provide the necessary funds and support to strengthen the ULBs, including plans to establish a separate directorate with capable officials for better management. He encouraged all members to familiarize themselves with the party’s manifesto, maintain transparency, and work cooperatively for the party’s success.
Advisor for Labour, Skill Development & Employment, and Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer, in his speech, lauded the chief minister’s efforts in holding ULB elections after a two-decade hiatus. He urged the newly-elected councillors to diligently fulfill their promises to the public, emphasizing the need to uphold public confidence in the NDPP through dedication and hard work.
NDPP President Chingwang Konyak attributed the party's loss in the Lok Sabha election to national and international factors rather than domestic ones. He reminded the councillors that their victory marked the beginning of their grassroots work, emphasizing the importance of discipline, unity, and cohesion.
NDPP Secretary General Abu Metha spoke about the party’s commitment to preserving the voice, culture, heritage, and history of the Naga people, as well as its focus on national and global issues, including human rights, secularism, gender equality, and women's empowerment. He acknowledged the chief minister's dedication and hard work in ensuring the successful conduct of the ULB polls and urged the councillors to work towards peace and unity in line with the state’s vision.
The programme featured various dignitaries, including NDPP Senior Vice President (Central) Charlie Sekhose, who chaired the event, SBCD Senior Pastor Rev. S. Vitoshe Swu, who offered the invocation, and short speeches by newly-elected DMC Chairman Hukheto Yepthomi and EDTC Chairman Niuto Awomi. The event also included special musical performances by Cantamus Choir, Thunglamo, and Zareni, with a vote of thanks delivered by NDPP Dimapur Region President Vihoshe Awomi.
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