Kohima, June 16 (MExN): The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), through its Social Concern wing, has issued a condemnation of the election-related violence that marred the bye-poll in Wokha, while calling for strict accountability from elected representatives regarding pre-poll promises.
In a statement released here, Dr Villo Naleo, Secretary of Social Concern, NBCC, termed the incidents of violence, intimidation and vandalism during the electoral process as “reprehensible and utterly unacceptable.”
“The incident of poll-related violence in Wokha, including the attack on candidates by certain individuals and groups, are reprehensible and utterly unacceptable,” Dr Naleo stated, adding that such callous acts undermine the rule of law, violate human dignity and strike at the very heart of democracy.
The NBCC expressed deep distress over the “growing tendency to condone violence in the pursuit of political objectives,” cautioning “this dangerous trend threatens the social fabric of our communities and erodes public trust in democratic institutions”
“No political ambition, partisan loyalty, or electoral gain can ever justify violence,” the statement asserted, while calling upon all political parties, civil society organizations and community leaders to unequivocally reject violence and foster a political culture grounded in respect, dialogue and democratic values.
The Council has demanded that those responsible for perpetrating, instigating, or condoning acts of violence must be held accountable under the law. “Elections are not battlegrounds for hostility and aggression; they are sacred democratic exercises through which citizens freely exercise their constitutional right to choose their leaders,” it emphasised.
The NBCC reaffirmed its solidarity with all victims of election-related violence, irrespective of political affiliation and appealed to every individual to reject hatred, intimidation and divisive politics in favour of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
In a parallel appeal, the NBCC reminded all elected MLAs and Municipal Councilors of the solemn promises they made before the electorate. “Prior to elections, many candidates passionately articulated visions, manifestoes and commitments for the welfare and development of their constituencies and wards. These promises were not mere campaign rhetoric; they constituted a public covenant with the people,” Dr Naleo observed.
The council expressed disappointment that after securing electoral victory, some elected representatives lapse into silence and become ineffective in discharging their responsibilities. “Leadership carries not only privilege but also accountability. The people have not forgotten the commitments made during campaigns,” the NBCC noted, while acknowledging that it may not be possible to fulfill every promise in its entirety.
The Council urged elected representatives to demonstrate sincerity, transparency, and tangible efforts toward the welfare of their constituencies. “Public office is a sacred trust bestowed by the people. Those entrusted with leadership must rise above complacency and political expediency to serve with integrity, diligence, and a genuine commitment to the common good,” it said.
Further, the NBCC emphasised that democracy flourishes not merely through elections, but through responsible leadership, accountability, and the unwavering pursuit of justice and public service. “The electorate deserves leaders who not only speak eloquently during campaigns but also act decisively after assuming office,” Dr Naleo added.
