Kohima, March 9: The Naga People’s Front (NPF), central headquarters, has expressed strong displeasure over the alleged statement made by the Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFRCC), referring to “our MLA, Achumbemo Kikon, as a ‘mere MLA'”. The NPF said such a remark is not only highly inappropriate but also reflects a lack of respect for the democratic process and the institution of elected representatives.
In a statement on Sunday, the NPF said, “No MLA is ‘mere’ in any sense of the word”. It also said an elected representative is the voice of thousands of people who have placed their trust in him through the democratic process. It further said that dismissing his position with such careless terminology undermines the very essence of democracy and the principles of governance. “It must be understood that every MLA, irrespective of party affiliation, holds a significant responsibility in shaping policies, addressing public concerns, and bridging the gap between the people and the government,” the statement of the NPF added.
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According to the NPF, the remarks made against MLA Achumbemo Kikon are particularly disturbing “because they come at a time when he is actively advocating for the long-overdue execution of the foothill road project”. The NPF also said this project has been left in cold storage for years despite being a crucial lifeline for the people of Nagaland. “Instead of engaging in constructive dialogue, such disparaging remarks only serve to divert attention from the real issue—the immediate need for the government to take action on the foothill road project,” it stated.
The NPF said it “believes” in upholding the dignity of all individuals, especially those in public service, and “calls upon organizations and individuals alike to refrain from making derogatory or dismissive statements against elected representatives”. The NPF also said criticism, when constructive, is always welcome in a democracy. However, personal attacks and unwarranted name-calling do not contribute to meaningful discourse, it further added.
The NPF then urged all stakeholders, including NFRCC, to focus on the common goal—ensuring that the foothill road project is executed without further delay. “It is time for unity and collective effort rather than unnecessary distractions. The people of Nagaland deserve better than divisive rhetoric; they deserve action and results,” it further added.
(Newmai News Network)
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