Shaiza appeals for peace, normalcy ahead of LS polls
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, February 04 2024: As the Lok Sabha elections in Manipur are tentatively scheduled to take place in April, the state BJP Political Programmes and Meetings co in charge Michael Shaiza has appealed to the people to ensure a conducive environment for return of peace and normalcy ahead of the forthcoming polls.

He has also urged all citizens of Manipur to exercise their right to vote in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

"I sincerely pray and believe that we all can live together...co-exist with love, patience, forgiveness and understanding.

As we set our foot on this very auspicious New Year, let us usher in love, forgiveness, togetherness and understanding amongst us," Shaiza told the media in an interaction in Ukhrul town on Sunday.

The state has been embroiled in an ethnic clash since last year, resulting in loss of many precious lives and properties.

It has created a volatile situation in the state.

Shaiza, who is also the president of Environment Rehabilitators' Association (ERA), believed that the return of peace and normalcy is crucial for the state's progress and development.

"Without a stable environment, it is challenging to implement any government policies or projects effectively.

The same is true of elections," Shaiza said and called for all citizens to work towards restoring peace and harmony in the state.

"To be brutally honest, Nagas of Manipur have been caught between the devil and the deep blue sea because we are very close and intimate with both the Meitei/Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities of Manipur.

We love and respect them both equally.

My fervent appeal to our dear est brothers of Manipur is to please shun the path of violence and give peace another chance," he pleaded.

In addition to peace call, Shaiza emphasised the importance of exercising the right to vote.

He said that in a democracy, voting is not only a right but also a responsibility.

It is the means through which citizens can choose their leaders and hold them accountable.

"My dearest brothers and sisters of Manipur, let's all exercise our universal adult franchise and elect our representatives to serve and govern us with integrity, justice, and righteousness...

and so let us all vote and give us our mandate in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections this year," he further pleaded.

He went on to state that the upcoming Lok Sabha elections are crucial for the people of the state as it will determine the state s representation in the national parliament.

It is the responsibility of the elected representatives to ensure that the voices of the marginalized communities are heard and their issues addressed, he said.

"With the upcoming elections tentatively set to ensue in April, there is a sense of hope and anticipation for a brighter future," Shaiza said, and urged the people of Manipur not to lose the opportunity to violence but to use their electoral rights wisely and elect leaders who will work towards the betterment of the state.

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