Naga People’s Front (NPF) candidate Neichü Kuotsu addresses the gathering during the declaration and dedication programme held in Chümoukdeima on May 30.
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Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | May 30
The Naga People’s Front (NPF) candidate for the bye-election to Ward 11 of Chümoukedima Town (CTC) Council said that his electoral objective is to complete the “unfulfilled legacy” of late councillor Keneisetuo Doze. Neichü Kuotsu formally declared his entry into the race for the vacant CTC Ward-11 seat on May 30 at a declaration ceremony held in Ward-11 in the presence of top leaders from the party hierarchy and NPF legislators, including MLA and Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Zhaleo Rio, and MLA A Pongshi Phom.
“My real reason for coming to Ward number 11 is development. I have come for development,” Kuotsu said. Kuotsu, who is NPF General Secretary, requested the MLA and Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Zhaleo Rio, to address road conditions in the ward. “I request you to bring black-topped roads to our Ward 11 during our lifetime. In Ward number 11, wherever you go, you will not find even an inch of black topping,” he said. He added that if elected, he would open an office in Ward 11 to “address your grievances” and work toward making it a “model ward.”
Kuotsu noted he had served Chümoukedima Town Council from 2004 to 2010, including a term as Chairperson, and later served as General Secretary of the NDPP from 2021 to 2025 before returning to NPF. He said the NPF’s stand was “preserving our culture, traditions, custom, and bringing development under the dynamic leadership of honorable Dr. Neiphiu Rio.”
Addressing the gathering, Zhaleo Rio said the programme marked the “official launch of our election campaign” for the ward. He cited Kuotsu’s past experience and party loyalty as reasons for the candidature. “Considering his past experience, his public relationship, his individual credibility, working experience, and party loyalty… everyone wanted Neichü U Kuotsu,” Rio said.
Rio stated that out of 25 Urban Local Body elections held in June 2024, the NDPP had formed councils in 23, including Chümoukedima Town Council where it holds seven of 11 seats. He added that Kuotsu, if elected, “will also get an office” and that the NPF had discussed development priorities for the district headquarters. “There are many challenges, there are many things to be done,” he said.
On governance, Rio said that the ULB system under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act provides for decentralisation, enabling stakeholders at the grassroots to participate in governance.
Kuotsu is contesting against BJP candidate Kezhanguto Zhotso. The bye-election was necessitated by the death of former councillor Keneisetuo Doze.
