Dimapur, Feb 2 (MExN): Four independent candidates from 47-Karong (ST) Assembly Constituency are up in strong protest against NSCN-IM involving in campaigning for a UNC-nominated candidate contesting in the 9th Manipur assembly elections scheduled for February 8. The four candidates L Jonathan, Benjamin Banee, SP Henry and PS Henry Paotei registered their protest against ‘Col’ Sounii, L Siba (Rajou Peyu), P Ambition (Leacy member), P Shimray (Tatar) and ‘Lt’ Phanitphang of the NSCN-IM campaigning for UNC nominee RV Shirang.
A note received here from the four candidates also expressed confusion over the ‘initiations’ of NSCN-IM cadres in the elections “as it is learnt that NSCN-IM has never initiated to any individuals or groups to campaign in their name”. Workers of the said constituency are at loggerheads “as to why those persons were involved in the election process”, the note wondered. They also expressed confusion because UNC chief Paul Leo had issued a press statement in The Sangai Express, January 30, 2007, ensuring free and fair elections. “Workers of this constituency” have warned that they shall not be held responsible for any consequences arising out of the “election process”.
