The Watsü Mungdang, the apex women’s body of the Ao tribe, convened a program on May 14 in Marepkong and Sungkomen Wards where women’s reservations and the number of candidates were confirmed as of May 14.
Six out of the 18 Wards of Mokokchung have women’s reservations for the upcoming Urban Local Bodies (ULB) Election on June 26, 2024, which will be the first-ever municipal election in the state with a 33 percent reservation for women.
Two women from Marepkong Ward and two women from Sungkomen Ward has confirmed to contest from their respective Wards as of the current date, although their candidature is still not officially declared.
Rongsenlemla Jamir and Repanungla LKR from Marepkong Ward, along with Imtimenla and Sunepienla from Sungkomen Ward, have been confirmed as candidates in their respective wards.
It has been announced that a total of 418 candidates, including 148 women candidates, will be contesting across 36 town councils within the three municipal councils of the state.
Arenla Longkumer, President of Watsü Mungdang, addressed the gathering, emphasizing that the event was not an election campaign program but rather aimed to inform the public about the long-awaited ULB election and the challenges ahead. She stated, ‘33% reservation for women in Nagaland have been accepted, and we are pleased to inform the candidates participating in this election about the challenges we have overcome to achieve this platform.’
The President also emphasized, ‘We are the creators of change,’ and encouraged women to set a positive example for the world, saying, ‘Let’s all strive to be learners of good actions.’
In her candidature address, Repanungla LKR from Marepkong Ward acknowledged the efforts of Watsü Mungdang and the Naga Women’s Association in achieving the 33 percent women reservation, expressing hope that all candidates from women-reserved wards will give their best. She extended her best wishes to them and assured cooperation with both the people and the council.
Rongsenlemla Jamir, also from Marepkong Ward, emphasized the importance of the opportunity to serve her community, stating, ‘Not every day will I have this chance to serve the people of my ward.’ She identified areas for improvement within her ward and pledged to bring out her best efforts if given the opportunity to serve.
Jamir, who has been involved in party politics since 2003 and a resident of Marepkong Ward for nearly 30 years, affirmed her commitment to free and fair elections, stating that she has never engaged in proxy voting or vote-selling.
Sunepienla from Sungkomen Ward shared her vision for contesting in the ULB election, highlighting the significance of women contesting independently and aspiring to be role models for future generations. She expressed gratitude to women leaders and pledged to serve the people with dedication. She also advocated for providing platforms for youth participation in leadership roles.
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Imtimenla, also from Sungkomen Ward, outlined her vision to support destitute and impoverished women if elected, emphasizing improvements in women’s and children’s health. She also aimed to enhance drainage, sanitation, and tourism by leveraging highway infrastructure for Sungkomen’s beautification.
Former president of Watsu Mungdang, Dr. Imlirenla Walling, shed light on insights into the ULB election history in Nagaland, stating, “We cannot embark on an election without proper knowledge.” She highlighted the struggles and hardships endured to reach this milestone, acknowledging criticism and repression faced from various sectors upon the announcement of ULB Elections, despite not soliciting it. Walling emphasized the need for candidates to be role models, free from corruption, stating, “The first impression is the last impression,” and urged them to seek blessings and walk in truth. She underscored that the women candidates from the six wards would set a precedent for the future, emphasizing their capability and integrity.
Dr. Anungla Aier, in her address, described the 2006 ULB election announcement as a “culture shock,” highlighting the gap in understanding between men and women, which led to turmoil. Aier urged candidates to prioritize serving the people, emphasizing that elections are about community support, not individual gain.
The chairman of Marepkong Ward emphasized the significance of starting the election process with integrity, urging all candidates to avoid bribery and wishing success to all candidates, regardless of gender.
Stressing against corruption and bribery, Watsü Mungdang called for free and fair elections, urging candidates to uphold integrity. They emphasized the importance of women voters choosing worthy and capable candidates.
