With the April 9 by-election drawing closer, political activity across the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency gained momentum on March 31, as candidates fanned out to key villages of Chungtia, Aliba and Kinunger, declaring their candidature.
NPP candidate, I Abenjang, in his address commended the respective village councils for allowing all candidates to campaign freely and opened the gates to all of them.
Addressing meetings across the villages, Abenjang expressed appreciation to the respective village councils for allowing all candidates to campaign freely.
In Kinunger village, Abenjang appealed for support and sought “mercy and opportunity” for Longkhum, stating that politics should be understood in a positive light. He said elections are temporary, but relationships endure, and urged voters to assess his capability and extend support if they find him suitable. He maintained that politics should not be used to create division, but to build understanding and relationships.
Highlighting his party’s approach, Abenjang stated that the NPP is tribal-centric and aims to address the needs and aspirations of the constituency. He said the party is not contesting to oppose others but to serve the people, with transparency as his key priority. He also assured that, if elected he would work with honesty and commitment.
The Kinunger Village Council acknowledged the candidate’s visit and reiterated that the village gate remains open to all candidates. The council emphasized adherence to village laws during campaigning and cautioned that any violations would invite strict action. It also called for unity among the people of Longkhum, stating that collective strength could determine electoral success for Longkhum’s win.
In Aliba village, Abenjang appealed for a free and fair election on April 9 and thanked the village for permitting his campaign. He stressed that democracy should not be misused to incite violence or enmity and called for responsible political participation. He also reiterated that the NPP represents tribal interests and, with collective support, could amplify the voice of the region at the national level. He urged voters to evaluate his profile and extend support if found capable.
The Aliba Village Council stated that its doors are open to all candidates and assured that the upcoming election would be conducted in a free and fair manner. It also encouraged candidates to maintain proper conduct and build constructive relationships with the people.
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In Chungtia village, where three of the contesting candidates belong, Abenjang reiterated that elections are temporary while relationships are lasting. He called for what he described as a “political resurrection and revival”, and should begin with Koridang. He emphasized peaceful conduct and mutual respect during the electoral process. He stated that elections provide an opportunity for interaction among different communities and urged voters to consider candidates on merit, including those from Longkhum.
The Chungtia Village Council also maintained that it remains open to all candidates and stressed the need for a peaceful and clean election. The council observed that the constituency is witnessing a different electoral atmosphere with new candidates and expressed hope that the election would strengthen unity among communities. It noted that Chungtia has three candidates, while Longkhum has one and Mangmetong has two, and called for relationship building among all villagers.
Meanwhile, Veboyi Wideo, National Vice President of the NPP, along with party campaigners and supporters, endorsed the candidature of I Abenjang and appealed to voters to extend their support.
Candidates from different parties and independent platforms also declared their candidature in the same villages on the day. NPP candidate, I Abenjang, Congress candidate, T Chalukumba Ao, Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen, and BJP and PDA consensus candidate Daochier I. Imchen all addressed gatherings in Chungtia, Aliba and Kinunger villages.
