After an initial refusal by the Mangmetong Village Council and subsequent intervention by the district administration, Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen on Thursday declared his candidature for the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency by-election in his native village.
The declaration, held under tight security, came after the council issued a no-objection certificate, reversing its earlier decision to deny permission citing security concerns.
Addressing the gathering, Imchen framed the by-election as taking place at a “critical moment” for Nagaland, linking his decision to contest with what he described as the present condition of the state.
“I know where Nagaland stands today, and that is precisely why I want to represent the constituency and make sacrifices for Mangmetong. I will stand by Mangmetong till the end,” he said.
Positioning the contest around identity and representation, Imchen said the elected representative from Koridang must clearly articulate the constituency’s stance on regionalism and Naga nationalism.
“I am contesting to uphold the identity and integrity of Koridang and to represent its voice… on broader platforms,” he said.
He added that the “pride of Koridang” has diminished and expressed hope that the by-election would help restore its standing, noting that the Ao community and the Ongpangkong region are closely watching the outcome.
Turning to the conduct of the election, Imchen placed emphasis on ensuring a free and fair process, particularly in Mangmetong.
He said voters, including senior citizens, must be able to exercise their franchise freely and warned that any form of violence or disruption would not be tolerated.
“Voting will be over in a day, but we will continue to live together,” he said, referring to fellow candidate Daochier I. Imchen, and urging the community to maintain peace.
Appealing to the Village Council and residents, Imchen called for unity and said he intends to serve based on his experience and understanding.
“I am also a son of Mangmetong, and I am committed to taking the village forward,” he said.
The program was attended by village council members and supporters, with endorsements from Imsumongba Pongen and chief agent Temjenyanger.
Following the declaration, Imchen held a separate meeting at the Yimlang sector of the village, where he reiterated his appeal for peace and a transparent electoral process.