DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 28 (MExN): The Opposition Congress party in Nagaland has stated that “Nagas should prepare to face the worst” even as it accepted the verdict of the electorate given on 28th February, 2013. “We thank the voters who have voted for us for their generosity of spirit by casting their conscience vote with boldness and courage inspite of numerous threats and intimidations”, stated a press note issued by Congress Legislature Party Leader Tokheho Yepthomi.
The Congress leader has claimed that “majority of the people have not given their conscience vote but have given their votes based on the amount of money received”. He also alleged that the last two elections have clearly shown how the majority of Nagas lust for money.
Stating that the NBCC had moved far and wide with their message of free and fair election, however, the CLP Leader pointed out that this has not been able to dissuade majority of the people in Nagaland to refrain from malpractices. “The money and arms seizure during elections is the clear witness that Nagaland is ruled by money and muscle power”, stated the press note while giving specific instances of such seizures including the incident involving the Nagaland Home Minister and NPF Candidate from 28. Koridang A/C.
Pointing to the gross malpractices, violation of Model Code of Conduct and blatant disregard for the law of the land in rapid succession, the CLP Leader also claimed that the money that has been used in the recent polls has been looted from the State Exchequer which is meant for the public. “The NPF has used the people’s money to buy the people’s votes”, the press note stated.
The Congress leader has earnestly appealed to the Nagas “not to lose their conscience in the interest of our future generations” and pointing out that “this is the hour for Nagas to choose whether we should allow money and muscle power to rule the State, or whether the opportunity should be given to dedicated leaders who dream of a better Nagaland with a brighter future”.
“The intellectuals and the Naga-loving people need to introspect how and where the Nagas are heading for the future. Ten years of misrule under the NPF has completely damaged the Naga way of life beyond repair. This Press Statement is being issued for future guidance of the Nagas”, Tokheho stated.
