DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 2 (MExN): Some 40-odd PCC members supporting the candidature of SI Jamir as NPCC chief, turned up at the latter’s residence in Dimapur, on Saturday night to set at rest “rumours” that they were being held in Jamir’s camp against their wishes.
Talking to mediapersons, the PCC members who just returned after visiting Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, said that the “rumours” that they were being “kidnapped” and coerced to support SI Jamir, were spread by the rival I Imkong’s camp out of sheer frustration.
They also disclosed that three PCC members had received SMS allegedly originating from Imkong’s house, questioning the members whether they were all “puppets of a higher evil, succumbing to their baser needs,” at a time when “monumental developments” in the Naga peace process was taking place.
SI Jamir said that after the unfortunate September 17 incident, 47 PCC members and others supporting his candidature physically went to Delhi, presented their case to the chairman, central election authority of the Congress party, and requested for repoll.
Based on the request, the party had ordered re-poll on October 6 next, Jamir said and expressed optimism that the October 6 polling would be free, fair and peaceful.”
Congress legislator Kheto Kinimi alleged that many supporters of Sungit’s camp had been receiving “calls” from Imkong’s camp as well as “threats” from some underground factions.Kheto also alleged Imkong had called up one supporter of SI Jamir offering him money to buy votes. “Imkong is playing his last cards. He knows that he is going to be defeated,” Kheto added.
Claiming the support of 53 out of the total 82 delegates comprising the electorate college for NPPC president, SI Jamir’s camp also presented NPCC vice president and former MLA, RL Akamba, who was in Imkong’s camp till Friday. Among others, CLP leader Tokheho Yepthomi was also present.
