Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen with members of the Mangmetong Village Council during his candidature declaration in Mangmetong village. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Mangmetong | April 2
Raising concerns over identity, representation and the need for a credible mandate, Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen on Thursday declared his candidature at Mangmetong village for the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency by-election, while calling for a free, fair and peaceful electoral process.
Addressing villagers at his native place, Imchen said the by-election comes at a time when “the condition of Nagaland requires reflection,” asserting that his decision to contest stems from his understanding of the present situation and a desire to represent Mangmetong. “I know where Nagaland stands today, and that is why I want to represent and sacrifice for Mangmetong. I will stand for Mangmetong till the end,” he stated.
Framing the election as an opportunity to redefine the constituency’s voice, Imchen referred to the recent common platform of candidates at Khensa village, where it was observed that while the bye-election may not immediately alter the state’s trajectory, it could shape a larger narrative. He maintained that the elected representative from Koridang must articulate what the constituency stands for, both within and beyond Nagaland.
He further remarked that the “light of Koridang” has diminished, and expressed hope that the mandate from this election would help restore its standing. According to him, the outcome will be closely watched not only by the Aos and residents of Koridang but also across the state.
Reiterating his campaign plank, Imchen said he is contesting to uphold the identity and integrity of Koridang and to ensure its voice is heard on broader platforms, including outside the state. He added that his engagement with voters across the constituency has strengthened his resolve.
Calling for unity within Mangmetong, he urged the Village Council and all sections of the community to move forward collectively. “I am also a son of Mangmetong, and I strive to take Mangmetong forward,” he said.
On the conduct of the election, Imchen stressed that the process must remain peaceful and democratic, stating that voters—including senior citizens—should be able to exercise their franchise freely and without fear. “I am not here to allow violence or destruction. This is a free election,” he said, appealing to community leaders to ensure smooth polling.
He also referred to fellow candidate Daochier I. Imchen, noting that both hail from the same village, and expressed hope that the election would be conducted in a spirit of peace. Urging voters to exercise their choice responsibly, he remarked that while the election will conclude in a day, “the community will continue to live together.”
Imchen further assured that irrespective of political support, he would work to ensure that every voter in Mangmetong can cast their vote freely.
The declaration comes amid the Mangmetong Village Council’s earlier decision to extend support to BJP candidate and PDA consensus nominee Daochier I. Imchen, an issue that was later addressed during a District Administration meeting on law and order and Model Code of Conduct compliance.
