The Chakhesang Clean Election Movement (CCEM) formally launched its Clean Election campaign at Pioneers’ Complex, Mission Centre, T. Chikri, Pfutsero, on 8 September. The campaign was launched by Executive Secretary of the Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC), Rev. Dr. Chekrovei Cho-o, with CBCC support. The CCEM committee is headed by Rev. Dr. Kuzhopoyo Tunyi.
Chekrovei Cho-o said the community’s once-celebrated culture of integrity and honesty had faded, with unfair practices becoming normal. Calling for a “U-turn”, he urged people to uphold what is right, stressing that “right is right even when no one is doing it, and wrong is wrong even when everyone is doing it”. He added that Christians must align with these values.
Nagaland Legal Services Authority Member Secretary Neiko Akami spoke on legal awareness and election provisions under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. He urged people to become conscious citizens by knowing the law, ensuring that the government is made to govern and maintaining accountability for every vote.
CCEM chairman Kuzhopoyo Tunyi said the movement was formally started in 2017, although clean election campaigns had begun earlier in the district. He said it is politically neutral and opposes the buying and selling of votes. He estimated that 20 to 30 percent progress had been achieved, citing deletion of multiple electoral entries and reduced enrolment of underage voters.
CBCC president Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao released a Clean Election song in the Chokri-Chakhesang dialect composed by Tunyi. Its Nagamese version was released earlier during the NBCC launch.
CPO president Vezuhu Keyho said the movement was for all denominations. Mothers’ Association president Zhonelu Tunyi said voters must also accept responsibility for selling votes. Youth Front president Kevesa Khamo urged active participation, while Students’ Union president Povozo Soho warned that alcohol and easy money can lead to corruption.
Representatives of churches, civil society organisations and village leadership attended and agreed to the movement. Rev. Dr. Kowepe Kanuo led the invocation, Rev. Dr. Kevekhalo Lasuh the closing prayer, and Dr. Vezhoto Soho delivered the vote of thanks. Sevolu and friends presented a song.
