“I will not be a leader who makes promises but a leader with a vision. I will not be a leader who pleases people but someone who will fulfill the will of the people,” declared Imkumniba Kichu on June 17 at his residence during a mass declaration program at Kichutip Ward for the upcoming Mokokchung Municipal Council election.
Kichu, contesting as an NDPP candidate, vowed to work in coordination with the people, considering contemporary needs. The 35-year-old highlighted the importance of youth leadership, questioning why, despite common talk of this being the era of youth, there is a lack of youth participation. “Today, I stand here as a youth, so will the youth take this opportunity?” he asked.
He also challenged the gathering to be voters who seek divine guidance in their choices rather than following “waves” and “trends”.
Talking to Mokokchung Times, Kichu emphasized addressing the town’s poor healthcare system. “A hospital is something no one wants to question,” he said, noting insufficient facilities and limited public service as “some health personnel often leave work early”.
For economic empowerment of youth, Kichu plans to introduce online classes for digital marketing or sign MoUs with organizations like Emporium and Youth Net thereby, giving opportunity to youth to even venture abroad.
Addressing Mokokchung’s critical water supply issue, Kichu proposed exploring CSR projects with companies to find a sustainable water source, as bore-wells are often disrupted by plate shifts. “If elected, we will work hand in hand with the PHED to explore all opportunities,” he said.
On sanitation, Kichu suggested that landfill dumping could be a better solution than dumping in river streams. According to Kichu, dumping in a landfill might even be used for manure if wastes are segregated properly.
Reaffirming his support for the NDPP, Kichu credited the party for significant developments in his colony, including paving, street lighting, and community hall construction in the ward.
When asked about the neglected IOC to Rotary Junction stretch, he said, if elected, he hopes to take the issue sincerely, adding, “I keep asking our leaders as well. We call ourselves pioneers, but the condition of our roads reflects our mindset. Road development brings in connectivity and if there is connectivity, there will be progress,” he said.
Kichu’s declaration was supported by uncontested NDPP winners Imtiyapang (Aongza) and Walunila (Penli). Imtiyapang emphasized the party’s focus on youth and women empowerment and urged the leaders to pave the way for young leaders.
Proposer to the candidate, Bendangtemsu also challenged the youth, stating that we keep saying ‘youth’ all the time but it doesn’t get translated to reality. “Therefore, I ask, will we fulfill it this time?”
NDPP General Secretary of 27 Mokokchung Town AC, Sashitsungba agreed that it was an era of youth where digital literacy has become paramount. Stating that Kichu is a well-deserved candidate, he said, “NDPP has already declared 5 winning candidates and now, NDPP needs only 5 more to be on the treasury bench,” urging the voters to be on the ruling side.
Vice President Tsuktimeren, NDPP Mokokchung Region admitted that this is an election that will be held against ward members, neighbors, and family members, which is against the Naga customs and traditions. However, he expressed hope that Kichu will lead the people on the right path and therefore, urged the electorate to keep the election clean and free from any controversy.
Short speeches were delivered by family members; Imtitoshi, President of the NDPP Kichutip Unit; Kichutip Ward Yimden; Chungtia Senso Telongjem Mokokchung, and well-wishers from Kumlong and Aongza Wards. Sakuwati Pongen, Treasurer of the NDPP Kichutip Unit, gave the vote of thanks. The program also included an invocation by Bendang, Associate Pastor of MTBA while the proceedings of the event was chaired by Mr Chasu.
Kichu is the first to hold an official declaration program from Kichutip Ward. The other candidates are Sanglipong (Independent) and Tsukjemwati (Independent).
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