With the 28-Koridang Assembly Constituency by-election approaching, candidates have begun their campaigns, outlining their visions and appealing for a free, fair and responsible election.

On March 26 at Mongsen Langpajang in Longkhum village, NPP candidate I. Abenjang, during his declaration programme, said his decision to contest the by-election was driven by the support and trust he has received from the people. He stated that since entering public life, he has felt the love of the people, which he described as his strength, and referred to his campaign theme as “love.”

Abenjang said he considers himself fortunate to receive the National People’s Party (NPP) ticket, noting that the party aligns with Naga culture and beliefs. He acknowledged the party leadership for the opportunity, stating that the ticket represents not just him, but also Longkhum and the wider Koridang constituency. He also expressed hope that a “political resurrection” for the constituency is evident in this election.

He stated that while he has been serving the public in his own capacity over the years, he realised the limitations in bringing change without adequate resources and authority, adding that political power enables more effective service and developmental work. He clarified that his decision to contest was not influenced by any individual or external political pressure, but stemmed from his commitment to the people, adding that support from villagers followed later in his journey.

Highlighting that the NPP is part of the ruling establishment, he informed that NPP president and Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma, is scheduled to visit Longkhum village on March 31, describing it as an opportunity for the people.

On the conduct of the election, Abenjang emphasised that victory should come through fair and ethical means, stating that a win through wrongful practices would not be meaningful. He urged citizens to uphold integrity and demonstrate that elections in Koridang can be conducted responsibly, adding that maintaining good conduct is important even in defeat. He further stated that the election should not be based on clan, khel or group divisions, but on the welfare and political revival of the constituency, and added that if his village finds him unfit, they have the right to question him and he would accept their decision.

NPP vice president Vevoyi Wideo also announced that Conrad Sangma will visit Longkhum village on March 31 to campaign for Abenjang and share the party’s plans and vision. He said the NPP, as a national party from the Northeast, stands on secular principles and for tribal communities, and added that Abenjang embodies the party’s values and his love for the people was recognised by the party. Emphasising unity, he stated that the focus should not be on which candidate wins, but whether Longkhum as a whole benefits.

Chairman of Unity Village Council, Hetoka Awomi, said Longkhum village has an opportunity for reformation and urged the people to look ahead rather than dwell on past differences. He called on voters to choose the right leader not only for Longkhum but for the Ao community and Nagas at large.

Well-wishers, including Vekhosayi Nyekha, former president of Western Chakhesang Hoho and former president of Tenyimi Union Dimapur, also campaigned for Abenjang. Temsüyangba, representing Longkhum Village Council, spoke during the programme.

Imchatoba reveals ‘bricks’ as poll symbol, Imtiwapang Kichu take campaign forward at Kinunger village

Meanwhile, independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen on March 26 announced his election symbol “Bricks” at Hotel Magnus, Mokokchung. Addressing the press, he said with six candidates in the fray and none withdrawing by the deadline, the contest is clearly set and appealed to voters to identify his symbol correctly and cast their votes without confusion.

Imchen, who hails from Mangmetong village, has previously served as president of the Naga Students’ Federation (2005–2009), both as vice president and president, and was also an executive member representing the Indian continent at the Asia Pacific Student and Youth Association (APSYA). He has held leadership roles in the Central Youth Organisation of NDPP and the Central Youth wing of NPF Nagaland, alongside involvement in various student and public organisations.

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He stated that the by-election came on short notice and candidates had to prepare within a limited time, adding that all six candidates are set to contest till the end. He said his decision to enter the fray is aimed at the prosperity and progress of the constituency, with focus on empowering youth and women. Highlighting the constituency’s potential, he noted that 60 to 70 per cent of the population is engaged in farming and that there is scope for development in agri and allied sectors.

Imchen extended his best wishes to fellow candidates and called for a free, fair and peaceful election. Responding to concerns over past election-related violence, he said that although Koridang has experienced such incidents, all candidates are determined to ensure peaceful polling this time. He expressed confidence that no such incidents would occur, noting that the candidates are relatively young, mature and share a common understanding.

He also underscored the constituency’s legacy by earlier leaders in Naga nationalism whichbis central to Koridang Constituency and said he would adopt a holistic approach to the Naga political issue. On his campaign, he said he has approached village councils and mentioned that Khensa Village Council has opened a common platform for all six candidates on March 28, with plans to cover all villages in the constituency.

On the issue of vote swinging, Imchen termed it an “immature act,” stating that trust should be earned through genuine appeal to the people rather than such practices.

Independent candidate Imtiwapang Kichu from Chungtia village launched his campaign on March 25 at Kinunger village, where the village council declared the area a “free-poll” zone ahead of the April 9 election.

Kichu, who took voluntary retirement to contest the election is now a former inspector in the Department of Industries and Commerce and among three independent candidates and one of three candidates from Chungtia village, alongside Major (Retd) Toshikaba (Independent) and T Chalukumba Ao (Congress).

Speaking to the media, Kichu said late Imkong L. Imchen was a fatherly figure to him and that his decision to contest is not driven by any personal agenda, adding that every citizen has the right to contest and vote. He acknowledged that even if elected, his tenure would be limited to the remaining period of the current Assembly term, but assured that he would work to identify and address issues in the constituency for the benefit of the people.

He said his focus was on ensuring a free and fair election from the beginning of his campaign and described the response at Kinunger village, which has around 50 households, as encouraging. He also noted that although Kinunger is a small village, it is well maintained with relatively fewer issues.

Earlier, addressing a gathering at the village community hall, Kichu formally declared his intention to contest the by-election and highlighted his campaign theme, “Change Begins With Us.” He stated that meaningful change must begin from within through unity and collective effort. He emphasised his experience in public service and his commitment to continue serving with greater responsibility, while outlining his vision to strengthen livelihoods, particularly for farmers and youth, improve roads and connectivity, support income-generating activities, enhance education and healthcare services, and ensure transparency in the use of development funds. He urged the people to work together beyond divisions for the better future of the constituency.

The by-election to the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly constituency, following the demise of five-time MLA Imkong L. Imchen in November 2025, is scheduled to be held on April 9. With all six candidates now in the fray having begun their campaigns, the contest marks the highest number of candidates in any of the 10 constituencies under Mokokchung district.

Earlier, a total of seven nominations were filed, including NPP candidate I. Abenjang, BJP candidate Daochier I. Imchen, son of the late Imkong L. Imchen Congress candidate T. Chalukumba Ao, and Independent candidates Imchatoba Imchen and Maj (Retd) Toshikaba. Wapangmeren, who had filed his nomination as a standby candidate for Maj (Retd) Toshikaba, withdrew his candidature on March 25, leaving six candidates in the race.