DIMAPUR — Following the recent urban local body (ULB) elections in Nagaland, the People's Democratic Alliance (PDA) coalition, comprising the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), issued a joint statement to clarify the state of their alliance and address recent speculation.
The PDA expressed gratitude to the electorate for the “overwhelming mandate” received in the ULB elections, interpreting it as a positive endorsement of the PDA government under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. They also acknowledged the contributions of government and non-government agencies in ensuring peaceful and successful elections.
Addressing “misinformation and speculation” about discord within the alliance, the PDA emphasised the strength and unity of their partnership. “The alliance between the NDPP and the BJP is as strong as ever and the PDA Government is functioning smoothly,” it clarified in a statement issued by government spokespersons and ministers KG Kenye and Temjen Imna Along.
While acknowledging the recent Lok Sabha election loss, which they accepted “with humility,” the coalition underlined that the result has not fractured their alliance.
Regarding the ULB elections, it said that both parties agreed to contest in their respective constituencies with “local understanding for friendly contests” in only three councils.
This decision, it explained, stemmed from requests by party workers, particularly given the grassroots nature of these elections.
Asserting that these contests were friendly in nature and have not impacted the joint teamwork of the PDA coalition in any manner, it went on to assert that “the state government continues to function with cohesion and understanding under a spirit of collective teamwork and responsibility.”
Further, the positive spirit of the alliance will continue to be upheld even in the formation of the ULBs across the state with an inclusive approach wherein both parties will work collectively with team spirit and unity, it said.
The PDA went on to reiterate their dedication to serving the people of Nagaland in an inclusive and just manner. “We appeal to all sections to strengthen unity and oneness as we remain committed to serve every citizen of Nagaland,” it added.