Sharingain Longkumer elected as 13th NLA speaker, says will be ‘true umpire’

Newly elected NLA Speaker, Sharingain Longkumer  being congratulated by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. (DIPR Photo)

Our Correspondent
Kohima | February 7 

Sharingain Longkumer of the NDPP has been elected as the new Speaker of the 13th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA).

In an election conducted through voting by ballot, Sharingain defeated Dr Imtiwapang Aier of the NPF by securing 32 votes while the latter gained 25 votes. 

The election for a new Speaker was necessitated following the passing away of former Speaker Vikho-o Yhoshu last month. The election was conducted under the chairmanship of Rural Development Advisor, Dr. Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire.

After his election, Longkumer said that his new responsibility comes “in the most unfortunate of circumstances,” referring to the passing away of his predecessor. 

“I will be, functioning as a true umpire, respecting the glorious traditions attached to the dignified office of the Speaker. It will be my constant endeavour to live up to that trust placed on me and I would always strive to justify the trust and honour attached to the chair of Speaker,” he said.

The new Speaker called upon all members to work with respect for democratic institutions. 

Longkumer was elected in the bye-elections for 26-Aonglenden Assembly Constituency in May 2019. He was then elected unopposed to the post of Deputy Speaker, NLA on August 6, 2019.

Meanwhile, Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio congratulated the new Speaker and said that Longkumer has displayed “exemplary understanding of his duties and responsibilities.”

The Chief Minister said that the NLA is known to be one of the most disciplined and orderly Houses in the country with the members exhibiting maturity in successive Houses throughout the years.

Rio was hopeful that Longkumer would continue to perform his duties with justice and impartiality and uphold the Constitution of India at all times. Leader of the Opposition, TR Zeliang also congratulated the new Speaker.

“We are well aware that the duty of the Speaker is not only to conduct the business in the house but equally important, is to maintain discipline and decorum. We hope and believe that you will do justice to the chair,” he said.

He hoped that Sharingain will be impartial and neutral in all his dealings in the NLA while upholding the dignity and decorum of the house.

As long as impartiality and neutrality are maintained, we will give our full cooperation for the smooth functioning of this house, Zeliang added.