If elections are interesting, 3 Dimapur III A/C is one interesting constituency where candidates with four big names are in the fray for the 2023 election: Azheto Zhimomi, Hekani Jakhalu, aspiring BJP Candidate Hukuto Khule and independent candidate Kahuto Chishi.
Chishi, known for his outspoken personality and activism, told Mokokchung Times that he is “just waiting for the nominations and scrutiny” because, according to him, if there is any way they can defeat him, it is through disqualification.
“So, I am waiting for the scrutiny after which you will see my true strength. My supporters are the silent ones,” he said, adding that he has not asked for anyone to vote for him but expressed his confidence in his supporters.
Explaining his views on the tussle over tickets in the BJP camp, Chishi said, “I know this was going to happen. Someone is controlling the BJP. Someone has purchased some of the members – both at the central and the state levels. He is using them to manipulate the numbers. Now, it has boiled over.”
Speaking about the number of intending candidates in his constituency with the latest being Hukuto Khule, he said, “I know Khule was going to contest, I am not surprised – for me, the more the merrier.”
According to him, people are basically honest and given the right choice, they will do the right thing.
“Now, for me, the more candidates there are, they will share the purchasable votes among themselves. Those who are rock solid, their supporters will not be affected,” he said.
Speaking on the resolution taken by ENLU, he said, “I am not surprised at the ENLU resolution. They have been saying since last year that they will contest. Now, the only thing is – is the ENPO ready to surround the DC offices so that no candidate can file their nominations? This cannot be 1998.”
Meanwhile, ENPO had convened a closed-door meeting today in Dimapur and is yet to react to the ENLU’s resolution.