Advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation, Daochier I Imchen, on Saturday assured the people of 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency that he would serve all citizens irrespective of political affiliation, emphasizing that he represents the entire constituency and not any particular village or political party.
Addressing a thanksgiving programme organized by the Mangmetong Village Council at Panchayat Bhavan, Mangmetong, Imchen reflected on the difficult circumstances that brought him to public office. He said the past six to seven months had been marked by personal hardship and emotional challenges, but expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people.
Imchen thanked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for reposing faith in him and nominating him as the party’s candidate in the recent by-election. He also expressed appreciation to the citizens of Koridang constituency for their support and confidence.
“It is not only those gathered here today whom I thank, but also those who supported me tirelessly behind the scenes and shared in the struggles and sacrifices throughout the campaign,” he said.
Describing the Assembly seat as a valuable responsibility, Imchen remarked, “I stand to serve in truth.” He acknowledged that he may make mistakes during his tenure and appealed to the people to guide and support him whenever necessary.
In one of the key messages of his address, Imchen stated, “I am not an MLA for Mangmetong Village or for the BJP party alone, but for the entire Koridang constituency.”
He further said that even those who did not vote for him should feel free to approach him for assistance without hesitation. “Do not be afraid to come to me for help. I am always ready to assist,” he said, inviting citizens to visit him at his Kohima residence whenever required.
Imchen said he would avoid making unrealistic promises and instead focus on achievable and practical initiatives during the limited period available to him. He assured the people that he would continue the developmental works and commitments undertaken by his late father, former minister Imkong L. Imchen, while also pursuing new initiatives wherever possible.
“How much I can do, I will do,” he stated.
Expressing gratitude to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Imchen said that on June 5 he was inducted into the government and entrusted with the responsibilities of the Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation departments.
Calling it a significant responsibility, he said he had humbly accepted the assignment and would work closely with the departments to the best of his ability. He added that the Chief Minister’s decision reflected confidence in his ability to serve the people and continue the legacy of public service associated with his late father.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
On youth empowerment, Imchen announced a skill development initiative under the State Planning Board’s local area planning programme, under which ₹20 lakh has been earmarked to support deserving and skilled youths.
He said around 20 youths would be selected during the current financial year through consultations with party leaders and village councils. Stressing the need for sincerity and viability in proposed projects, he urged beneficiaries to focus on sustainable livelihood opportunities and take their ventures seriously.
According to him, nearly 40 youths could benefit over two financial years, with equal representation to be provided among the villages under the constituency. He, however, emphasised that only genuine and committed proposals would be considered.
“These are among the immediate initiatives that I intend to undertake,” he said.
Imchen also thanked the Mangmetong Village Council for its continued support and trust, assuring that as the elected representative he would work for the welfare and development of the entire Koridang constituency.
Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Mangmetong Village Council Chairman Watitemjen expressed gratitude to the people of Koridang constituency for their support in the by-election. He acknowledged the contributions of various political parties, organisations and individuals in securing the victory and noted that the constituency had supported Mangmetong candidates on six occasions, including five terms represented by late Imkong L. Imchen and now by his son, Daochier.
He urged Imchen to remain humble in public service and work not only for Koridang but also for the welfare of the Nagas in general. Noting that the remaining tenure is relatively short, he appealed to the people to continue supporting and trusting their elected representative.
The programme was chaired by Allen Imchen, while the invocation was pronounced by Rev. R. Sangvula Imchen, Associate Pastor (Women), Mangmetong Baptist Arogo.
The programme featured a Walunir presentation by Tsuiza Imchen & Co., followed by the advisor’s address. A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Rev Dr I Lolen Imchen, Pastor of Mangmetong Baptist Arogo, while the Youth Ministry of Mangmetong Baptist Arogo presented a special song. Yudang Imchen also spoke on behalf of the family.
Short speeches were delivered by Imkongsanen, Councillor of Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC); the President of BJP Mokokchung District; the President of NPF Mokokchung Division; the President of 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency; Kilangzulu, Chief Agent; the President of Alichen Unit; Sangyumongba, Councillor, MMC; and representatives from Longkhüm Village Council, Khensa Village Council, Chungtia Village Council, Alichen Town Committee, Yimyu Ward Yimden, Aliba Village Council, Meküli Village Council, Kinunger Village Council and Satsü Village Council. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by C Anung Imchen, President of Mangmetong Unit.
