Mokokchung | 14 May
Sunepienla and Imtimenla from Sungkomen Ward have confirmed their candidacies for the upcoming Urban Local Body election in Mokokchung. Meanwhile, Rongsenlemla Jamir and Repanungla have confirmed their candidacies from Marepkong Ward.
The Watsü Mungdang, the apex women’s organization of the Ao Naga, convened a program today in the wards where women reservations have been implemented and candidates confirmed. Sungkomen and Marepkong wards were the first to confirm women candidates under the 33% reservation policy.
During the gathering, representatives of the Watsü Mungdang highlighted the challenges faced in achieving 33% reservation for women in Nagaland. They called for a ‘corruption free’ election and urged the candidates to respect the right to vote. She also urged the candidates to abstain from bribery and set an example to the world as women.
Sunepienla expressed gratitude for the long-awaited opportunity, committing to serving to the best of her abilities and affirming that the time has come for women to independently contest elections. She hopes that all women candidates will become role models.
Imtimenla shared her vision to support destitute women and poor widows if elected, along with a focus on improving the health of women and children. She also aims to enhance drainage, sanitation, and beautification in Sungkomen, given its proximity to highways. Imtimenla pledged to uphold a clean election and challenged the “Land of Pioneers” to lead the clean election movement.
Rongsenlemla highlighted the relative disadvantage of Marepkong Ward compared to others, noting its lack of progress. She hopes to uplift the ward if given the opportunity.
Repanungla, recognizing the significance of the 33% reservation, expressed hope that all candidates for ULB Mokokchung will give their best and extended her best wishes to them.