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Aizawl, Mizoram — October 1, 2023: Mizoram’s Chief Minister, Zoramthanga, has voiced apprehensions regarding the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), citing what he perceives as discrepancies in their actions and statements. The Chief Minister’s remarks follow the ZPM’s earlier assertion that they did not require Chakma votes, juxtaposed with their subsequent establishment of a party unit in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC).
The Chief Minister articulated his concerns during a block conference organized by the Mizo National Front party in the Aizawl South I constituency on Saturday.
Conflicting Actions Raise Questions
Chief Minister Zoramthanga highlighted that the ZPM’s contrasting actions had raised doubts about the authenticity and transparency of their political endeavors. He emphasized that although the ZPM initially gained traction, particularly in the Lunglei municipal council and by-elections, it now seems to be facing challenges due to a range of issues.
Moreover, he pointed out that the ZPM’s origin was rooted in opposition to traditional party politics. However, over time, it shifted its focus and sought recognition as a political party from the Election Commission of India. This shift in approach has led many to question the organization’s internal structure and overall coherence.
The Chief Minister expressed skepticism about the ZPM’s ability to secure enough MLA seats to establish a party in the upcoming election.
ZPM’s Evolving Stance
In the 2018 assembly elections, the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), a relatively new political entrant in Mizoram, made a notable statement. Their chief ministerial candidate, Lalduhoma, declared that the party would refrain from fielding candidates in the two constituencies with a Chakma majority in the upcoming Mizoram polls, citing the broader interests of Mizoram’s people. Nevertheless, despite this stance, the ZPM has established a unit and actively participated in elections for Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), including the CADC polls held earlier this year.
In a recent political development, Rasik Mohan Chakma, Chief Executive Member of the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), along with 16 members of the district council, has announced their intention to join the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) party. This decision has further underscored the evolving dynamics and complexities within Mizoram’s political landscape.
As the state approaches the next election cycle, Mizoram’s political landscape appears increasingly intricate, with various parties and movements vying for representation and the trust of the electorate. The ZPM, in particular, finds itself under scrutiny for its shifting stances on critical issues, which could significantly impact its future in Mizoram’s political arena.