Morung Express News
Kohima | February 20
According to a survey done by the Youth Net, 216 crore was spent during the Nagaland legislative assembly election in 2008. The research, importantly, found that candidates who spent the most won. Colo Mero, a member of the Working Committee for NBCC’s Clean Election campaign, said that their attempt is to change this.
At a press conference held today in the state capital, NBCC General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Anjo Keikung stated that the Clean Election campaign has no vested political interest and is solely aimed at “removing evils from the society”. Anjo referred to recent episodes of money being seized and said that the NBCC has always been aware that there will never be a drastic change in society just because of a campaign. Stating that any movement aimed at improving the society will take time, he said the campaign will continue even after election. Critics will always comment, he said.
Addressing youth issues, Vikuo Rhi, Youth Secretary said that the clean election campaign focuses on the youth also because youth make or break the nation. Mentioning that so far there have been no reports of youth camps as in previous elections, which in itself, he said, is a positive sign. He appealed to the youth to abstain from activities like booth capturing and use of intoxicants. Further he said that young people thirst for development which is why we have to elect responsible leaders who will work for upliftment of the society.
Rev. T. Narola while addressing media persons said that the NBCC women wing has been working towards creating a healthy and spiritual lifestyle for the Nagas. She said that women have realised the importance of prohibition which is shown in the check gates set up in various districts to control the flow of liquor during election season. Narola informed that in Rengma areas women have pledged not to take any money from candidates and will not allow their spouses to take any cash either. She added that women will pray near polling stations and try to keep the atmosphere peaceful. She also appealed to all women to stand firm in their faith and follow the code of conduct.
Pastor M. Konyak who is also a member of the working committee, appealed to all candidates and believers to “remember their commitment to the lord and not be mere hypocrites”.
Mention may be made here that more than 10,000 people have signed the clean election campaign pledge. Reliable sources said that there are people who have returned/ refused to take money from candidates in support of the campaign. After election, a review will be done to see how far the campaign has been able to influence the populace. Rev. Anjo, on a parting note said, “Even if one person is changed through this campaign, it is a success”.
