4 MHJU members in ADC poll fray
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik
Ukhrul, May 28 2015 :
Four former members of the Manipur Hill Journalists' Union including two editors are among the 555 candidates in the fray for the upcoming Autonomous District Council (ADC) elections slated for June 1 .
All the former MHJU members are committed to fight corruption and bring development at the grass roots.
They have also focused to bring in development and to ensure that development projects reach the targeted groups.
Significantly, the journalists-turned politicians have also set their priority to fight for devolution of power to the ADCs.
Election for 144 members for the six ADCs in the five hill districts of the State will be held on June 1 .
The journalists who are contesting the ADC elections are Ramkung Pamei, editor of Tamenglong based 'The Cham', a Rongmei dialect daily newspaper; Kh Benlian Vaiphei editor of 'Nisin Thuhiltu', a Vaiphei dialect daily from Ccpur; Pamreiso Shimray, an Ukhrul correspondent of Imphal based dailies and SN John, subeditor of Manipur Express (Churachandpur) .
Ramkung is contesting on NPF ticket from 15-Chaengdai DCC of Tamenglong ADC.
Kh Benlian is contesting as an Independent candidate from 4-Chongkhozou DCC of Ccpur ADC.
Pamreiso Shimray is contesting on Congress ticket from 18-Kamjong DCC of Ukhrul ADC while SN John is contesting as Independent candidate from a seat in Churachandpur district.
"Without empowerment of the people, nothing can be achieved," said Pamreiso Shimray while talking to this correspondent over the phone.
He added that tribal cultures need promotion because their cultures are their identities.
"I had worked as a student leader and a journalist for the welfare of the people.
The role of a politician in bringing development and welfare to the public remains vital," said Ramkung Pamei.
Kh Benlian Vaiphei said: "The prevalent culture of 'high command decision' has deprived many people of their fair share.
I chose to contest the election as an Independent candidate so that I will have no limitation in serving the public." "Change, progress and development should be brought about in consultation with the public but not with 'high command decision,'" he said.