It has rarely happened in Nagaland elections when voters from a different district are more invested in another candidate from a different district than theirs. However, the electoral dynamics in Nagaland has been altered this time, at least in the case of 3-Dimapur III assembly constituency.
Dimapur III is getting a lot of traction and media attention. The outpouring of support from Mokokchung for independent candidate Kahuto Chishi of 3-Dimapur III Assembly Constituency is quite profound and transcends constituency, district and tribal lines. People in Mokokchung are reportedly contacting friends and relatives in Dimapur III and asking them to vote for Chishi.
Chishi, who is running against Azheto Zhimomi of LJP(RV), Hekani Jakhalu of NDPP, V Lasuh of Congress, and Independent candidate Lun Tungnung, has been known for his candid criticism of misuse of power by institutions of authority, injustice, and corruption, and has been dubbed the “common people’s man,” particularly by the vulnerable sections of society.
But why is Kahuto Chishi finding so much love in Nagaland’s districts, particularly Mokokchung, where they will not be able to vote for him?
“GB Kahuto Chishi is the voice in the wilderness,” Temsu Jamir, who has voting rights in Mokokchung district, said. “He may be eccentric, but he is the only candidate who has promised to sit on the opposition bench regardless of what happens. Let there be no more opposition-less government,” he added.
“For those who support this idea, we cannot go and vote for him but at least we can start calling (friends and relatives)… Let’s walk the talk of a ‘change’,” he continued.
“Let us rally behind Kahuto Chishi. Dimapur people, please support Kahuto Chishi. We require voices and noise in the assembly,” he stated, adding that one of the reasons why he supports Chishi is because he is a ‘Mokokchung town boy’.
“If we are serious about clean elections and to get rid of corruption, we need courageous and learned people like Kahuto Chishi. Moreover, he has a background in Mokokchung. I wish to support him in any way we can,” Toshi Walling seconded.
It is true that Chishi has his roots in Mokokchung. He grew up in Mokokchung town and his childhood home is still in the town.
However, the love he receives is so overwhelming that sharing the same town is nothing as compared to what he represents.
“Except for the many reasons why politicians cannot be trusted, Kahuto Chishi seems to be of a different breed,” said Tia Mollier, adding, “He brings with him a beacon of hope for the people. I hope that it is an answer to our fervent prayer for a better land.”
Chishi is a ‘beacon of hope’, a symbol of justice and meritocracy, not just to the people of his constituency or Mokokchung, but for many Nagas everywhere who wish for a change. As a result, the stakes in Dimapur III are high, which explains the hype surrounding the election there.
“At the very least, we can fervently urge our friends and families, near and dear ones or well-wishers from that Assembly Constituency to vote for Mr. Kahuto… Dimapur III is the centre of attention,” Temsü Aier said, suggesting that his ‘beacon of hope’ is now in the hands of Dimapur III voters.
“A humble request to all of my friends residing in Dimapur 3 constituency, we all have so long been talking about change and this is the best opportunity for Dimapur 3 people to prove that Nagas today walk the talk…,” Arsashi Ozukum shared on his Facebook wall. “I’m not judging the other candidates contesting against him (but) given a chance, he will prove above the rest and make a difference,” he added, adding that voting for him without expecting anything in return will be the beginning of change.
“He has his flaws … but I tell you, he will not step away leaving you alone in times of need. I’m not from the constituency but I’m here only to request you all, give him a chance today and build the future together,” Arsashi appealed.
It is not just Mokokchung where Chishi is finding support as more voters continue to express regrets, particularly on social media, that they are not in the same constituency as him.