KOHIMA, MARCH 2 (MExN): KG Kenye has been chosen as the NPF candidate for the upcoming election to the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Nagaland State. Kenye, who had 13 votes in his favor, was chosen during a meeting of the NPF Working Committee in Kohima on March 2. It may be noted that the RS seat from Nagaland State had fallen vacant after the passing away of former MP Khekiho Zhimomi last year.
Earlier, Nagaland State Chief Minister, TR Zeliang had asked members present at the meeting to choose the RS candidate on the basis of loyalty to the party, not along tribal lines but based on capability, and also keeping in mind the crucial stage of the Indo-Naga issue.
Following this meeting, the DAN Coordination Committee was informed of the Working Committee’s decision. A press note from the NPF Working Committee said that the State Unit of the BJP has also “in principle welcomed the decision of the Working Committee.” The election for the RS seat from Nagaland State is scheduled to be held on March 21.
Meanwhile, sources from the BJP state unit informed that the DAN co-ordination meeting was inconclusive as BJP leaders requested that their party be also given a chance.
They reportedly said that the state unit would have to consult with the central party before taking any decision. The state BJP also submitted a letter to the DAN coordination committee chairman urging the latter to heed to the request of the BJP. Sources further informed that the BJP is also mooting a candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat from a list of three. They reportedly include former Nagaland commissioner, HK Khulu; former state BJP president, Dr. M Chuba, and former minister, TA Ngullie.
