The Sungratsu Senso Senden Mokokchung (SSM) today honoured and felicitated four victorious candidates from Sungratsu Village who emerged successful in the recent Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections for the Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC) at Majakong Ward Community Hall.
Out of six candidates from Sungratsu Village who contested in the election, four were triumphant during the recently concluded ULBs election for MMC. The successful councillors include three women and one man: Bendangkumba Aier (NDPP) from Majakong Ward, Maongtula Longchar (NDPP) from Alempang Ward, Yongkongsang R (Congress) from Artang Ward, and N Imtimenla Ao (Independent) from Sungkomen Ward.
M. Taka Longchar, Chairman of the Sungratsu Village Council, compared the current political victories to the village’s historical pride when twelve tigers were hunted in a single expedition during the 1970s. He emphasized that modern accolades, such as winning elections, should be celebrated but cautioned the newly elected councillors about the responsibilities they now bear. He urged them to fulfill the aspirations of their constituents and work diligently during their five-year tenure.
“Fulfill the aspirations of the people who have elected you to this position, strive to achieve the people’s vision and plans in your tenure while eyeing for the coming elections,” Lonchar advised the elected councillors.
Lemasashi Ozukum, President of the All Ward Union Mokokchung, also addressed the councillors, urging them to show gratitude towards the electorate who placed their trust and mandate in them. He emphasized the importance of respecting the people’s mandate and remaining connected with their constituents while performing their duties and responsibilities as councillors.
Ozukum further highlighted potential challenges under the New Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, pointing out that certain articles in the act might lead to conflicts with landowners. He advised the councillors to seek guidance from elders and experts to navigate these provisions effectively.
Speaking on behalf of the newly elected councillors, Bendangkumba Aier expressed deep gratitude to the citizens of Sungratsu for their moral and physical support during the intense election period. He acknowledged their role in helping the candidates achieve victory and called for ongoing support in their future endeavors.
Aier also addressed the challenges posed by the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, noting that it is a new piece of legislation that requires careful implementation. He emphasized the need for cooperation and support from the community as they work to understand and apply the provisions of the new act.