Dimapur, November 18 (MExN): Dimapur Christian Forum in collaboration with Peace Channel organized the ‘2nd Consultative Meet for Clean Election in Dimapur’ at North-East Institute of Social Science & Research (NEISSR) Conference Hall on November 17.
A press note received here stated that the meeting was moderated by Fr. Chacko K, Secretary, Dimapur Christian Forum in which Simon Kelio, Vice Principal, Sakus Mission College and Convener of Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) and Dr. Panger, Oriental Theology Seminary were the keynote speaker.
Simon, in his address, introduced the concept of the Pledge Stickers and shared the implementation plan for Clean Election through the Pledge Stickers. He said that the sticker is an initiative of DUCCF, GB union and the churches.
He elucidated, “The sticker will be distributed to all the unit churches, pastor and leaders where the unit churches will take the initiative of distributing it to the members of the church – one each to a family who would commit themselves on clean election principle”.
On suggestion by the speaker, the house unanimously decided the stickers will be blessed on November 26 from respective churches and distributed to the household. He hoped that the Pledge Sticker will be a success especially with the participation of the churches.
The house, then, deliberated and discussed as to how best the Pledge Stickers can be implemented and what Church leaders or Colony Chairman can do, concerning Clean Election Campaign for the betterment of Naga Society. Many prominent church leaders, Head of Institutions, representative of GB union and Chairman of Colonies gave their opinions and suggestions.
The house opined and suggested that the members present will try “their best not to declare any particular candidate as a favourite of a ward, village or a particular church.” Also, when the pastors are called, neither by word, saying or not saying, doing or not doing something, will not favor any particular candidate. It was also put forward during the discussion that the culture of praying for the candidate by the pastors during election becomes necessary and unavoidable, despite the incorrect notion of some individuals, by the very fact that the pastors are called to serve God and the People. The house also opined that the concept of, “One man, One Vote” should be emphasized more, because of the fact that some voters have double enrolment within Dimapur and in their respective villages.
Dr. Panger said that the Clean Election Campaign is not about rejecting everything related to election and being inactive towards it, but he believed that it is about doing things the right way by not involving oneself in corruptive practices. It was also put forward that the social and political disorder in Nagaland is more of a spiritual problem and the lack of commitment to spirituality and henceforth there is a need for the churches to “fast and pray”.
Earlier, Rev. Paphino invoked God’s blessing and the welcome address was given by Rev. R.P. Murry, Chairman, Dimapur Christian Forum in which he also briefed the concept of Dimapur Christian Forum and the need of the church in leading the Clean Election Campaign. The programme concluded with a mass prayer.
The purpose of the meeting was to find out ways and means of collaborating with the churches, GB’s as well as Chairman of various Colonies for Clean Election through the Pledge Sticker. Church Leaders, Pastors, Reverend, Members of DUCCF, Goan Burahs and Chairman of various Colonies attended the meeting.
