Imchatoba Imchen declares his candidature for the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency by-election from Mangmetong.
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MOKOKCHUNG — Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen declared his candidature for the 28 Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency by-election in his native village of Mangmetong on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion before the Mangmetong Village Council, he outlined his reasons for contesting and appealed for a peaceful, transparent electoral process.
Earlier, the village council had denied him permission to declare his candidature, citing security concerns within the village. However, following intervention by the district administration, he was issued a no-objection certificate by the council, allowing the declaration to proceed. The event was held under tight security inside the village.
Imchen explained that his decision to contest is driven by his assessment of the state’s current situation and his commitment to represent Mangmetong. “I know where Nagaland stands today, and that is precisely why I want to represent the constituency and make sacrifices for Mangmetong. I will stand by Mangmetong till the end,” he said.
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Imchen stressed that the elected representative from Koridang must effectively convey the constituency’s position so that the Naga people can clearly understand its integrity and stance on regionalism and Naga nationalism.
“I am contesting to uphold the identity and integrity of Koridang and to represent its voice, along with the interests of Koridang and Naga-related issues, on broader platforms—including those beyond the state,” he said.
Imchen said he intends to serve based on his experience and understanding and called for unity among all sections of the village. He pledged to ensure a free and fair process in Mangmetong. He insisted that voters must be able to exercise their franchise freely according to their conscience.
Referring to fellow candidate Daochier I Imchen, he noted that both are sons of Mangmetong village and expressed hope that the election would remain peaceful. He urged voters to exercise their franchise thoughtfully, reminding them that while polling would conclude in a single day, the community would continue to live together afterwards.
Imchen reiterated that, regardless of the level of support he receives, he will work to ensure that voters in Mangmetong can cast their ballots freely and without fear.
Following the formal declaration, Imchen held a brief gathering at the Yimlang sector of Mangmetong village. Addressing his supporters and well-wishers there, he again reiterated his stand against violence and appealed to them to maintain peace and uphold a free and fair election process.