In maiden visit, Sangma backs Longkhum candidate I Abenjang, flags unity and youth concerns
Arenjungla Kichu
Longkhum | 2 April
The Koridang by-election drew Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya and National President of the National People’s Party (NPP), to Mokokchung on Thursday, where he campaigned in Longkhum village for party candidate I Abenjang, reiterating the party’s independent political line.
Sangma’s visit, his maiden to Mokokchung, came specifically for Abenjang, a native of Longkhum, who, according to Sangma, had expressed disbelief at the Chief Minister’s presence in the village.
“This visit is through divine intervention,” Sangma said, adding that he had not initially planned to campaign. Recalling his father’s teaching to “enter politics only to serve people,” he framed the visit as a call to public service.
“Why come to Longkhum?” he asked. “I believe there is a need to bring our people together. We don’t have a platform, a voice, an opportunity.”
Speaking to media persons, Sangma stressed that the NPP “always maintains its independent identity” and does not engage in “negative politics.”
“We are here to tell the people about the party, the belief and the principle of the party. That’s what we stand for… I am fully with the candidate, fully with the party and we’re going to work very hard to win this election,” he said.
At the same time, he acknowledged the limitations imposed by coalition politics when asked about the absence of NPP legislators from Nagaland in the campaign.
“Multiple reasons and concerns arising from the coalition are involved,” he said, describing such challenges as a natural part of coalition functioning, while maintaining that the party would continue to seek support based on its core principles.
On national issues, Sangma reiterated the party’s position on the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, calling it a “draconian law” that should be repealed.
“While maintaining law and order and national security is essential, there are other ways to achieve this without giving agencies a free hand. The government should introduce a balanced legislation that safeguards both national security needs and the safety of the people,” he said.
During his campaign speech, Sangma also highlighted economic opportunities. He drew a connection between Meghalaya and Longkhum through the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Noting that Meghalaya’s festival has gained national recognition, he said similar initiatives in Longkhum could be elevated through Abenjang if elected, linking such efforts to livelihood, employment and tourism.
Stressing that the Northeast is the “youngest part of the country,” Sangma said the region continues to face challenges due to the lack of unity and a common platform.
“We face numerous challenges, yet there are immense opportunities. What we lack is a common platform, a collective voice, and genuine unity. Without these, how can we open doors for our youth?” he asked.
Describing youth as both the region’s “greatest strength” and “most pressing challenge,” he cautioned that failure to create opportunities could lead to their energy being “misdirected.”
“It is the responsibility of political leaders, social leaders, traditional heads, and religious leaders to create the right opportunities… otherwise that energy could be misdirected, leading only to destruction in our society, state, and nation,” he said.
Reiterating the party’s broader vision, he added, “The core mission of the NPP is to bring the people of the Northeast together… to build a strong voice and platform that uplifts our youth, farmers, women, and society at large.”
Senior party leaders including Vevoyi Wideo and Mmhonlumo Kikon were present at the program.
Upon his arrival at Longkhum ground, Sangma was accorded a traditional Ao welcome. He interacted with village elders and the Village Council chairman before addressing a public rally at the community hall.
