Former MLA, Toshipokba Longkumer, and the former intending candidate, O Tinujongshi Longkumer, both from 26 Aonglenden assembly constituency under Mokochung district, have “unanimously” resolved to “come together” and nominate Toshipokba’s candidature in the upcoming state assembly election scheduled on February 27.
The duo, an active member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) now, has “unanimously” resolved to come together in the upcoming general election for the 14th Nagaland legislative assembly and work together with one vision and one goal for the better of the constituency in support of Toshipokba Longkumer,” an update from BJP stated on Wednesday.
“To further the cause of all round development in the constituency, both the supporters of former MLA Toshipokba and Tinujongshi have decided to join forces and work together. They unanimously resolved to nominate Toshipokba as the intending candidate from 26-Aonglenden AC for the 14th general election,” it added.
“Both parties have decided to put their differences aside and work towards the overall development and betterment of the constituency,” it added.
It may be mentioned that Tinujongshi is the younger brother of Late Imtikumzuk Longkumer, who was a former NDPP legislator, deputy speaker, and advisor of Sericulture from 26-Aonglenden AC.
His demise necessitated the bye-poll in 2019 as a result of which the current NLA Speaker, Sharingain Longkumer, was elected following the withdrawal of nominations by Toshipokba (NPF then) and Tinujongshi (NPP then) from the race to extend support to Sharingain.
Sources informed this newspaper that Toshipokba Longkumer is now "seeking" the BJP tickets to contest in the 26-Aonglenden AC. Both Toshipokba Longkumer and Tinujongshi Longkumer are now "active members" of the Lotus party with Toshipokba officially joining the party in November last year.