Rishang calls for joint effort in fighting corruption
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, January 16, 2012:
Corruption at the high level, senseless violent incidents of killing innocent people and drug abuse and its resultant HIV/AIDS problem among the youngsters are the three major issues besetting Manipur today, seasoned politician and Rajya Sabha member Rishang Keishing pointed out.
Talking to Hueiyen Lanpao on the sideline of a blessing prayer programme organized by All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO) for the Christian candidates in the forthcoming General Elections to the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly at the Chapel of Believers Church Bible College, Laimanai today, Keishing said that as long as these three major issues remain, the future of Manipur would remain bleak.
"Unlike in other parts of the world where everyone is moving forward in the developmental race, what we see in Manipur is just the reverse", Keishing maintained.
On the issue of corruption, the veteran Congressman pointed out that Lokayukta needs to be implemented strictly.
"What is the point of having Lokayukta, if it is not going to be implemented effectively", he questioned.
Stressing on the need for equal development in both the hills and the valley areas of the state, Keishing who served as Chief Minister of Manipur from 1980 to 1988 and from 1994 to 1997, observed 'it is funny today that if I want to visit Phungyar and other remote areas of Ukhrul district, I have been advised not to go because the condition of the road is bad'.
Lauding the efforts of AMCO, which has been conducting a series of consultations/seminars to sensitise Church leaders and Christian community over the problems afflicting the state, Keishing suggested that other social organizations of other communities in the state should also join the campaign to sensitise the public.
Billed as the first of its kind in the history of Christianity in Manipur, the blessing prayer was organized to encourage the Christian candidates to respect Christian values and walk in the path of righteousness.
Although the invitation cards have been reportedly send out to all the Christian candidates, only three of them, namely Gaikhangam, DK Korungthang and Manga Vaiphei turned up.
Moderated by Rev Dr Nipamacha of Kanglei Presbytery EFCI, the blessing prayer programme commenced with invocation by Rev Lalthantluanga, Field Secretary of Presbyterian Mission.
Delivering the welcome address, President of AMCO Rev S Prim Vaiphei observed that the Manipuri society has become so corrupt today that one cannot speak out the truth.
Greetings the Christian candidates, Chancellor of Archdiocese of Imphal Rev Fr TS Dominic called upon them to treat their opponent graciously and shun violence.
He also pointed out that winning the trust of the people is more important than winning election.
In his exhortation speech and blessing prayer, Chairman of Love Manipur Rev L Timothy Phaomei categorically stated other than winning the trust of the people, winning or losing the election should not make any difference to a true Christian candidate.
The programme concluded with benediction by General Secretary of MBC Rev Dr W Konghar.
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