The People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) held its Mass Rally for the General Election to the Lok Sabha 2024 led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Chingwang Konyak Chairman PDA & President, NDPP, and Consensus PDA Candidate Dr. Chumben Murry today at Town Hall, Mokokchung.
Dr. Chumben Murry in his address stated that Peace, Development, and Progress of a society are the seeds sowed in politics. Responding to PDA government’s decision upon the consensus candidature, Dr. Murry said, “The sole reason is to unite together and work for Naga Political issues. Without a Naga Political solution, there cannot be full-fledged development in Nagaland.” In this regard, Dr. Murry informed that a Political Affair Committee will be formed. “Although legislators cannot be negotiators, we will play the role of facilitators,” he added. Talking about progress, Dr. Murry assured, “The next five years will be years of prosperity and bring Nagaland to a State of excellence.” He promised he would represent the sixty legislators and the whole of the Naga population. Dr. Murry also mentioned the “Anti-BJP and Anti-Christian propaganda” and reminded that “all the Legislators in Nagaland are Christians” and that “not all Hindus are into removing secularism.” He justified his point by mentioning the North East Christian Forum, which works to reduce the atrocities done to Christians in all parts of India. He also mentioned a forum called the Parliamentary Christian Forum, where he plans to join and negotiate with leaders in all parts of India if he is elected in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.
Chingwang Konyak, Chairman of the PDA and President of the NDPP, stated in his campaign speech that after careful consideration of who can effectively represent the challenges, needs, and issues of the Nagas in Parliament, Dr. Chumben Murry was unanimously selected as the leader possessing all the requisite qualifications and experience.
“We require stability in Nagaland, and we currently possess a stable government. Furthermore, strong stability will be solidified in Nagaland by a significant margin through the PDA government. Tribes or clans should not dictate the voting choice for the candidate to be sent to the Lok Sabha; rather, it is crucial to choose an individual with the requisite potential to represent the entire Naga community,” asserted Konyak, referring to Dr. Chumben Murry as their strong candidate.
Addressing the ENPO, Konyak urged them to seek understanding and negotiate their needs with the government rather than opting to abstain from participating in central and state elections, stating that not participating in elections would imply their own loss. He concluded his speech by appealing to everyone to vote for the PDA consensus candidate, Dr. Chumben Murry, in the election scheduled for April 19, 2024.
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In his address, CM Rio stated that the Ao Nagas are pioneers in every field and it is appropriate to call them “Pioneers” for various reasons, such as being the first region where Christianity was received, excelling in sports, education and more.
With the voting date set for April 19, 2024, Rio announced that an alliance of all political parties and leaders, along with party workers, has united to choose Dr. Chumben Murry as their Consensus PDA candidate, with the support of 60 MLAs of the state.
After extensive consultations and nominations by the Election Board, the CM expressed satisfaction in selecting the best candidate.
“Dr. Chumben, an experienced medical doctor and former Minister for Agriculture, is the most capable candidate to represent the state,” said Rio. Although Nagaland may have only one seat in the Lok Sabha, the CM expressed belief that achieving the highest percentage and margin of victory would leave a lasting mark in the country by the State. He expressed full confidence that Mokokchung would fully support the Consensus PDA candidate.
CM further mentioned that some candidates have filed to contest the election merely for the sake of participating, while others are not expected to win but aim to demonstrate their party’s continued relevance. However, he emphasized that their candidate is supported by all 60 MLAs of the opposition-less government in unison.
Rio also acknowledged the diversity of opinions towards the BJP party, recognizing both critics and supporters, but stressed that perfection is unattainable for any party or individual. He asserted that, in the current political landscape of the country, there are no viable alternatives to serving the central government other than the BJP, citing its powerful leadership, visionary approach, international relationships, and other strengths. He confidently stated that the BJP alone can secure an absolute majority, surpassing the three hundred mark in the upcoming election, with the support of numerous small parties, totaling 57, across 18 states.
Reflecting on his own political journey where he began as a youth president in 1974, CM Rio expressed gratitude for the support received over the past 50 years and emphasized the importance of unity for resolving the challenges faced by the Nagas. He highlighted the significance of upholding traditions, culture, and the government’s role in preserving the rich heritage of the region, while also expressing optimism about the future of the country’s economy.
CM Rio asserted that Dr. Chumben Murry is the ideal candidate to represent all Nagas in parliament, with a primary focus on addressing Naga political issues and finding solutions. He reaffirmed the protection granted under the Constitution of India for Christian-dominated states, urging churches and communities to actively engage in discussions on various issues. He described the current situation regarding Naga political issues as a critical juncture and stressed the importance of collective Naga participation for achieving an early resolution, noting ongoing efforts by both the Naga and Indian governments towards this end.
Furthermore, CM Rio encouraged citizens to fulfill their responsibilities without relying solely on politicians, emphasizing the duty to uphold identity, country, traditions, and customary laws.
The programme was chaired by Metsübo, Minister RD and SIRD Government of Nagaland. Short speeches were also presented by MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu, MLA Nuklutoshi, and Imkong L Imchen, Advisor, Information and Public Relation and soil and water Resources, Government of Nagaland. Tsükjem, President, BJP Mokokchung delivered the welcome address, while the Women Organisation NDPP Mokokchung Region presented a special number and Sayangpong presented “Rise Up”. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mayangnungba, President of NDPP Mokokchung Region.
