FEBRUARY2013
ELECTION: THE PROCESS MATTERS Mazie Nakhro According to our Naga traditional way of selecting leaders, a person shouldn’t initiate volunteering himself in a leadership contest. This has worked well in the village context where everybody knows everybody. But in this modern-day competitive world, individuals must proactively assert themselves to emerge to the surface and on top, if possible, especially in the field of politics and businesses. The question is this: How does one know if he should volunteer himself to be a candidate for a leadership position? Perhaps the reasons could be as many as there are leaders. And I’d like to share mine: First, his desire should be a result of a deep concern for others (ambitious to do something) rather than be driven by selfish ambition (ambitious to be somebody). As such, he must critically examine his own motive. One well-known pastor, Andy Stanley, explains this beautifully: “If you are consumed with the tension between what is and what should be, if you find yourself emotionally involved...frustrated...broken-hearted...maybe even angry...about the way things are, and if you believe God is behind your an-
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guish, then chances are you are on the brink of something divine...something too important to walk away from.” This was exactly the experience of Nehemiah, according to the Bible, whose altruistic burden resulted in volunteering himself for the service of his own people. How should one contest for leadership position? A person who lacks the strength of character has to rely on external things such as the power of his title or position to command respect and following. He may be smart at playing politics as a game, but he may possess no quality leadership material or fresh vision worth inspiring others. And he sees people as cheap and gullible so he throws out a lot of money to entice them. Then, he turns around and accuses them of expecting money for their votes. Such a person is neither a responsible leader nor a qualified player. In sharp contrast, a good leader plays by the rule-clean and fair. Winning at all costs is not his method of doing things. Of course, he knows that money, and often a lot of it, may be required for a successful campaign, but he doesn’t use it to buy votes. He’s fully aware that money talks, but then he asks, “Does it tell the truth?” For a leader of character, truth matters more. He knows that life is complicated and complex and thus can be very confus-
ing. But truth, for him, is simple yet powerful. In fact, truth is like a life partner to him so he can always sleep well even during the most boisterous election season. To help in the upcoming election in a “Christian State” such as ours, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council has started speaking out boldly so as to cleanse the system of all the evils accompanying it. This is nothing more or nothing less than Biblical Christianity. Dr. John Stott, one of the world’s most influential figures in the spread of evangelical Christianity over the past half-century, says this: “It is exceedingly strange that any follower of Jesus Christ should ever have needed to ask whether social involvement was their concern.” As a follower of Jesus Christ, Mother Teresa lived this truth and also said, “Hands that serve humanity are a lot better than lips that talk of divinity.” So, extend your hand to serve in the election process this month as it could determine the direction of public affairs and services in our State. Cast your vote for the right candidate because the welfare of your community depends on it. This is part of your social responsibility which you, a beneficiary member, owe not to any candidate but to your community. See the election time as a great opportunity and prayerfully engage in it. If a
candidate wants you to pray for him, do so as God would want you to. If he asks for a prayer of commitment, help him to realize that such spiritual act requires his submission to God. For that matter, any spiritual act of consecration or ceremonial anointing implies the right of God’s claim over a person or thing so He can turn something secular into something sacred. Why is your vote so important? Allow me to explain the significance of this with the use of a philosophical principle: 1 + 1 = 3, 4, or even 10. This is what the power of combined efforts does. For example, when your vote becomes a part of many other votes, it can create a powerful wave (power of synergy) which can result in getting a candidate elected (effect of synergy). And when he becomes your official representative, he becomes an extension of your voice and service in a powerful way. And because he represents you, you become either a beneficiary of the resulting benefits from his good deeds or an accessory in his wrongdoings, depending on the degree of that representation. Therefore, as your vote could play a deciding factor in the outcome of the election, it is important that you select a candidate who reflects your values. And remember, how you vote tells people who you really are deep inside.
Election: Reclaiming Democratic Right Tokato K. Yeptho Today in this fast paced world of communication, an event taking place in any corner of the world is relayed and shared simultaneously as it happens. Every day, in the news, we see countries that are torn apart by conflicts. The news is filled with protest, riots and debates. We are inundated by commentators in our own country who points to the evils or mismanagement of our government machineries. In our own way, we have also been participating in protests and have shown our resentments through the social networking sites like Facebook. No matter whichever side we cling on in political spectrum, there are certainly things we would like to see it changed. For this we have the clearest statement in all of scripture concerning the function, the role and origin of civil government. Romans 13:1ff, talks about the origin and the role of governing authorities. Nagaland being a Christian state, almost all us is a member of a church and we are all citizens of this great nation. In Romans, Paul openly claims that he is a Jew but also holds a Roman citizenship with pride and urges his fellow Christians to obey the Roman authority for no authority comes unless it is from God and that everyone including the Christians must participate in the civil administration for the smooth functioning of the state machinery. What is true for Christians in Paul’s time is definitely true for the Naga Christians in Nagaland. For all these years, I have been fed with the notion that taking part in the election process is evil and sin because all unwanted events take place and of course they do take place even now I believe. I thought it not appropriate for someone who is religious to involve in politics more specifically in the election. Therefore, honestly I still do not possess a voter I-card and never thought it necessary. But elections in Nagaland have been taking place without me and there has been 80% or 100% turnout. How can that be? When many of us do not participate? We all know what happens and they are all history – proxy voting is rampant. The fault is not who vote in proxy but people like us who do not participate gives an opportunity for evil to flourish. As I travel around this big democratic nation, I
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realized and feel guilty that I have not been taking part in the democratic space that this country has provided to me. I only want to sit back and blame the leaders if things go wrong in our society not realizing that I am also part of the problem for not trying to do anything about it. We demand sovereignty but we still do not know how to exercise one of its ideals. We have made and allowed election to become so dirty and do not know what it cost to have democracy. Let us think of our neighbouring country Myanmar, whose citizens are fighting for democracy so dearly. When wrong people are elected, what is the point of blaming them only? We should all know that we are equally responsible for selecting the wrong persons. If we are not willing to take part in the democratic exercise then we have no right to shout foul. As we pray ‘Your Kingdom come on earth as it is heaven’, we have a greater role to bring heaven on earth by participating in the election and selecting God fearing person to lead us. The “Clean Election Campaign” promoted by the NBCC is in the right direction as I perceive that the church should involve in the very structure of our society that is sick and cancerous. As James pointed out faith without action is useless, therefore praying alone is not enough unless we take a step out from our comfort homes and go out in the heat to exercise our democratic right. As Nagaland gears up to elect 60 legislators on February 23, 2013, let us reclaim our democratic right and cast our vote in the coming election taking it as a commandment from God. If not, keep your mouth shut until the next election.
Like Minded CITIZENS creating an awareness of CLEAN ELECTION in an Around DIMAPUR. Seen here are Band Members of the MTV EMA 2012 Best INDIAN ACT winner ALOBO NAGA AND THE BAND and a well wisher advocating the CLEAN ELECTION CAMPAIGN in the streets of Dimapur, Nagaland. (BETOKA SWU)
Ten Commandments on Election I shall not sell my vote I shall not exchange cash for vote I shall not exchange liquor for vote I shall not feast for vote I shall not indulge in sexual immorality during election I shall not vote in proxy I shall not allow others to vote in proxy I will not misuse my right to vote I will exercise my democratic right I will vote according to my conscience
ILLUSTRATION by Kanato N. Sumi Editor-In-Chief, Zunheboto Times Magazine
Opinion is a theme-based supplement published on the third Saturday of every month. Here you are the artist, the writer, the photographer, the storyteller and the creator of your own opinion.
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“Choose your leader wisely” Mrs. Mhalo Lotha I am jotting a few lines expressing my concern and anguish on behalf of Nagas women and in particular to state police force wives. Having had experienced, witnessed and lived on for several years, made me to reflect and make our society leaders aware of the facts prevailing. Police safeguards our constitution and undergo all the hardships and obstacles in order, that people enjoy their rights guaranteed in it. They sacrifice their families, freedom, liberty and most importantly one’s precious life for the sack of common citizens. They serve faithfully both within and outside the state bearing the vows taken, but unfortunately, none gets what one’s deserves. Inadequacy in terms of basic amenities and no other benefits are delivered, which is more painful and hard to accept, as a wife looking at our husband taking up such responsibility , doing the duties so loyally, carrying out
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the commands with one’s heart and soul and at last don’t receive what they deserve. Therefore, I appeal the government and the police department to look into this matter very seriously and consider so that everyone gets their due share and rights of the citizen are not curtailed at any cost. Besides, I call upon all the people to think wisely, as an Assembly Election is knocking at our doors because once our vote is misused, it is lost for five years. We have a right to choose our leader who would represent us, therefore, choosing the right leader would only bring quality result and bear fruit benefiting our society. Do not be taken away by filthy words, false promises and black money. Do not sell your vote for an individual interest and benefit but sell your vote to bring development, peace, progress and prosperity in our state. Remembering the statement quoted by Rahul Gandhi during his visit to Nagaland (2011) in DSS Stadium, Dimapur that “In spite of huge assistance given by the Central
Politicized Politics Election is simply around the corner. It is perhaps the most awaited event for most of us. Ironically, yes it is. It is an interesting time for most of the Nagas to finally lose their feet from the ground. It is a beautiful time to make money, boost the liquor market or maybe just create an artificial “Boom” period in the business cycle. One may be illiterate but if we talk about the level of skill that they may possess as a player, no doubt, majority of the Nagas will earn a distinction in the subject called Politics(if there ever has to be a need for one) People treat politics as a game to be played or altered! No doubt, Nagas are definitely a pro in playing dirty politics. We cannot forget our faithful, devoted and honest politicians. We know how honest they really are (seriously!?!?). This upcoming election one can expect unlimited promises being showered upon the public. These promises will hardly be fulfilled except for some faithful politicians who are true to their self. The rest of them are all for the run of making more money and gaining the power they yearn for. Whereas they talk big about working for people’s welfare but in turn, people work for their welfare. As I traveled to one of the district in Nagaland, I was really happy to see many of the roads being made bet-
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ILLUSTRATION by ATONG ROTHRONG
Is Politics important to you? Akhayii Komou Politics is a concern of everybody. Politics is the activities involved in getting and using power in public life, and being able to influence decisions that affect a country or a society. Everything is the way of politics. But the reality is the wisdom of politics. In today society, what we concern is the reality practices of politics. We see the role of politics in government, association, Hoho, village community, political parties, religion, economy, military etc. In our society, do we really digest the role of politics? It seems that many of our older generation follow democracy without properly knowing the meaning and the role democracy. Many of us play politics in the lines of tribalism, regionalism, self interest and self righteousness. Sometimes the mindsets of the people are brainwash base on this or that factor for political gain and self interest. Things explode into big problem on those small issue matters when the mindset of common people are brainwashed. Politics which is based on self interest, self righteousness, tribalism etc is the benefit of few people and the exploitation of common people. Politics of power monger leads to confusion and restless of the society. Politician is the highest pow-
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er of politics in today world. People elect them to be the politician of the people. In reality politician is the most powerful social worker. A person is elected as minister or leader of the society so that he is given the authority to respect, control and apply justice and the rule of law. A good politician listen the words of the people and apply the wisdom of law which brings peace, justice, prosperity, rule of law and equality to every individual and section of the people. He respects the rights of an individual, provided that the right is not in wrong direction. In these days, the role of politics may be very unfortunate. It is commonly known the reality practices of politics in our environment. Every individual can say something about the politics of our surrounding. Money, tribalism, self interest, threatening, gun culture, muscle power, etc are the reality circumstances of today politics. Blaming may not be the wise role of politics. When the clothes get too dirty, it is not easy to clean in an easy manner. It has to apply good quality of soaps or detergents for washing. In addition, it has to spend lot of energy and time to clean the clothes. Apart from this, a servant or a person must be expert in washing clothes. Likewise, when the system of the society is demoralized and corrupted, it will not be easy to transform and reform the system of the society. It takes time to change the process of the system.
Election is the process of choosing a person or a group of people for a position, especially for a political position, by voting. The common people elect a person for a minister or leader so that the voice of the people and the wisdom of knowledge is decided and implemented within the system of the society. But in reality practices, the people and the leaders of the society does in different manner. We know that a candidate or a leader spend lakhs or crores of money to win the election. Most of the common people use to demand, and also run after the money. The manifestoes and vision of a person is very important. An all round development and good governance cannot be implemented in our surrounding if there is the wrong system of the society. If common people are civilized, a good leader will be elected. But if common people are not civilized, a leader will be elected based on the quality of the people. Everything is politics. The highest power of politics is in the hand of politician and public leaders. They can bring either the land of peace and development or the land of crisis. The root cause of Politics begins with the common people. The politics of justice, rule of law, equality, human rights, good governance, fraternity, an all round development, globalization, interdependent and peace is the concern of our surrounding.
Government in the form of funds and other welfares, Nagaland still remains poor and moves backward, while other states goes forward developing and delivering a positive change in almost all the fields”. A remark known to our state by an outsider made me to feel ashamed and lingers a question mark about our leadership and administration. It is a high time for all of us to wake up and work hand in hand to change our old tradition, narrow mindedness, selfish interest and take a step to move forward. Noting that many of us are known with different identity and take the advantages of using for selfish interest. For instance, a single person can vote in his name in both village where he was born and in town where he resides. Hence, it is the duty of the village leaders and concerned department to find out such loopholes and rectify them. Dear Nagas “Enough is enough,” Let’s change our attitude and work together as one family for a common cause.
Allan Aley
ter. But it was sad to know that those roads were hurriedly constructed by some politician who in the last election might have promised to do so. Now he can proudly testify his promises being fulfilled just when the election is about to hit the state. Is it fair? Can we trust such dishonest leaders again? No! Beware! There will be dozens of such kind this upcoming season. Well. It’s never too late to re correct ourselves. It’s never too late to bring back our senses to think and act right. Just a few mind-boggling pleas…to all the all Nagas in Nagaland (irrespective of Tribes, constituencies or districts) Dear Nagas don’t run after money. Run after that candidate who will be able to fulfill his promises and bring back some development in our land. That’s how you save your money. Dear Politicians, We know you all are extremely skillful in lying a truth. We also know that the one with the most number of tricks in his pocket is likely to win. But please, if you are a believer, if you go to church… just a reminder… Fear God! If you are not a believer by chance, reaching an end with dishonest means will not take you far either. Let this election be a time where everyone participates their voting right freely. Let this be a clean election (at least this time). Play fair, if you are a man and woman of integrity. Or else this is how you lose your integrity, if you really care for yours.
Elections AND Nagas Dr. E. Renphamo Lotha Elections and Nagas could become one of the eight wonders of the world! The reasons being the 95% Christians practice the most unchristian principles. The leading vices are the following: Extreme alcohol despite total liquor prohibition, extreme presentations in cash and kind, extreme slaughter of pigs and cows, extreme feasting, extreme expenditure running onto ten to twenty crores against eight lakhs of rupees only. Further, there are platoons of local armies, underground, overground, and middle ground with the Philosophy, “Power flows from the barrel of the guns”. Appointment of very important persons, damage of houses, vehicles, raiding houses, organized gang fights, stoning and even shooting with guns, rampant supply of drugs, call girls with HIV/AIDS etcetera are the order of the day. Democracy has become clan sponsored candidates, village sponsored candidates. In the midst of these vices all around, the crux of the question therefore remains, “Will there be fair and free election”? The Bible has outlined the works of the flesh. They are adultery, fornication, uncleanness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries(Gal. 5:19-22).The Nagas may even cross the limits of the signs of the flesh during elections especially during general elections including the ensuing election. In the midst of these sins and crimes, the church as the agent of the salt of the earth and the light of the world become the advocates of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, namely ,love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control .(Gal. 5:22-23) Let us turn away from the works of the flesh and accept the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Let us walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh. Let us sow the seeds of the Spirit, so that we will reap spiritual fruits. Because the trees will be known by the fruits he bears. Let us translate “Nagaland for Christ” in action. So that the world will know we are truly Christians by our lives. Let us note that our lives may become our message as we prepare to cast our valuable votes freely and honestly.
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ELECTION Every normal person can think rationally as we are gifted with brain, so ponder over and deliberate critically to choose the right government. Don’t feel guilty and regret after making an error but learn from the past mistakes, for that we have to think twice before we jump. Dear fellow Naga’s, the power lies on us, so let’s utilize and invest for our future towards bringing peace and joy, growth and development, progress and prosperity.
ASHELA TERESA YIMCHUNGER
As we embark on the higher height of newer generation and with the increases of human population, The Nagas has forgotten the real meaning of the word “ELECTION”. People can be seen going where the money are showered. Thus, resulting in choosing the wrong person often, which ultimately leads to corruption and unemployment as most of the chosen leaders aims to develop their family. Which has leaded in unequal enjoyment of our political right. The cross breeding of backdoor appointment. The feedback and criticism for mere sake of narrow political and personal gain are the certain things we need to fight for and I believed this with be one of our greatest contribution. “The flood of Money that glushes into politics today is a pollution of Democracy.” VOTE FOR DEVELOPMENT NOT FOR MONEY.
Is it a good news or a bad news? The next round of elections will be held this month, People placed different view on politics, in fact election is rich in Nagaland, The succeeding government will feel they have come into power through the means of power. But this is wrong, people vote only for the right government because we believe that this will be good for better future, who believe it will bring changes, peace, harmony in every social cause and economic development of the state, politics is not a game where the winner kept the trophy inside the room safely but it has to be explore the significant to change the environment of the society. In our land election is like coming of Christ in Nagaland where demands come in the form of liquor, bundle of notes, hatred, hurting, killing and so on.. Lets make the forth coming election held peacefully not through power but through believe. Our state will prosper under the leadership of a righteous leader.
To candidates and parties, any election that results in their victory is a good election. To the losers, the election was, by definition, not a “good” election. However this concept does not apply to present day Naga society. It is a plague that descends upon us after a gap of 5 yrs, resulting in moral degradation, chaos in the society and sometimes leading to loss of lives and properties. The candidates too are overwhelmed by the atrocious demands from the supporters. Some who are entrusted to lead the flock also indulge in this game encouraging further mayhem (Dear God see you after the polls). Student’s academic performance drops too as they are busy earning quick cash. Everybody wants a free and fair election. Is it possible? Maybe! The Day is not far off where we can see a ray of hope as signs of enlightenment and progress intellectually is stirring among many. As the adage goes, “Rome was not built in a day”. MYAN T. EZUNG
DENLEM AVENTH PHOM
Elections in Nagas context are still crude and raw that money, muscle power and creating ism among Nagas. This is the time and moment that we the younger generation should led and decide our fate.
Dear elder, younger and friends of Naga families, here I say, A leader is to be choosen by people but why do we Nagas leaders buy us. It’s your right to choose a leader of your view so why should we let our right to be servant to money. There Naga families why don’t you and I elect the good leader who would develop Nagas and not the leader who runs after money and self gain. Come one – come all let’s have clean election why use money and might power lets all seek for peace and fair election.
What is election??? The first thought that comes to our mind is all about money…. Is it money that overtake us …. Is it power or fighting with one another killing etc…?? Lets all think about it …. February is the month of election for the people of Nagas. 23rd of this month to cast their vote and choose the right leader. Politics is all about power to win the expected or desired level of an individual. Dear Nagas this is my humble request, be wise in every act. Let there be peace and harmony among the people of Nagas in this forth coming election. I believe each and every Naga wants development. If you wish, choose the right leader whom you think can bring peace and development in our state. Vote for your future.
LANU IMCHEN
MANSHAK. K
N. ELIN LEINAK
BEIZO ZIRÜ
The word election seemed to have lost its real meaning for the Nagas. Nagaland, a Christian state by name, reserves a back seat for God with Money taking the front seat during elections. For those who have dreams of becoming a minister or even the Chief Minister someday will go to any length and win, either through fair or unfair means. Unfortunately the word fair has faded in Nagaland. Unfair means have become a way of life. A normal election may be termed as showering the supporters with lots of money, proxy voting, capturing of polling booths, resorting to violence, guns and kidnapping. The after effect of it results in losing of homes, lands, savings, reputations, marriages, relationship with family members, relatives, with God and even lives too. So long as the love of money and the lust of power with no vision for the people and the State are involved, the future of Nagaland stands bleak. SUSAN LOTHA
When wrong people are elected, what is the point of blaming them only? We should all know that we are equally responsible for selecting the wrong persons. If we are not willing to take part in the democratic exercise then we have no right to shout foul. The “Clean Election Campaign” promoted by the NBCC is in the right direction as I perceive that the church should involve in the very structure of our society that is sick and cancerous. As James pointed out faith without action is useless, therefore praying alone is not enough unless we take a step out from our comfort homes and go out in the heat to exercise our democratic right. As Nagaland gears up to elect 60 legislators on February 23, 2013, let us reclaim our democratic right and cast our vote in coming election.
TOKATO K. YEPTHO
Dear fellow Nagas, In this present context of Nagaland the word ‘election’ is very influential to every individual irrespective of young and old, men and women. But the saddest thing in our political system is that people are running after money alone without knowing the true cause of election, we are becoming the slave of money which is the root of all evil. The leader whom we are choosing now is going to lead us to another milestone so, before casting your vote just question yourself whether he or she will be able to lead us till that very milestone???
TOKIKA YEPTHOMI
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Elections and Nagas C. Cho-o General Election time is here again and the spirit of the Nagas is high, very high. When I was on studies overseas, International students used to comment that, “Nagas have politics in their blood and Jesus Christ in their heart.” Yes, Nagas have politics in their blood. Politics is a favorite game of the Nagas regardless of status, gender, and age. For most Nagas politics is everything – source of money, employment, regularization of job, promotion, even fund for church programs, and the like. But how I wish the second is true too – “Jesus Christ in their heart!” It is said, “Peace rules the day when Christ rules the heart.” There can be peaceful election only if everyone allows Christ to rule his or her heart because if Christ rules our heart and mind, our attitude will turn positive resulting in acceptable conduct. Bob Bowers quipped, “When the people in a nation are programmed to sin, they also elect leaders who are corrupt.” I earnestly appeal every sensible citizen of Nagaland to vote for the one who will build our nation and not destroy it.
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Aah! Election!!
Kevi Sohe
Abstain your vote for who will build his/her kingdom with your money or one who will pocket the money meant for roads, drainages, power (electricity), sanitation, health-care, etc. Every individual is responsible for ruining or building the future of the Nagas, not only the candidates. In many ways the candidates will react according to the demand of the corporate individuals. Therefore, the individual citizens have a great role to play in the reformation of political system in the State. John Mason says, “There is always free food on the fish hook.” How true it is at a situation such as today. One may enjoy free food, free ride, free cash, and free gifts today, but material enjoyment or pleasure is always shortlived. Therefore, today’s momentary pleasure could lead you to another five years (or more) of suffering if you fail to do the right thing – suffering in the forms of traveling on the dusty bumpy roads during the dry season and roadless river-like road during the monsoon, sit in the class, teach or work under motionless ceiling fans in the heat of the summer, even run around to find alternative energy to charge your mobile phone, your town and
neighborhood decorated with garbage, cursing waterless reservoirs and dry pipelines, and many more can be expected. Therefore, make up your mind to vote without soliciting cash or kind. It costs you nothing to vote, so why should you beg for the wage that you’ve not earned? Help your candidate to exercise his/her responsibility in socio-economic and political reform if he/she is elected. In that way you and I can contribute towards the holistic development of our nation. As John F. Kennedy had once challenged his countrymen and countrywomen, let us not “ask what our country can do for us, but ask what we can do for our country.” Hats off to the Nagaland Baptist Churches Council for spearheading Clean Election Campaign. What a blessed endeavor! NBCC, the apex body of the churches in Nagaland is the mouthpiece of God for a godly cause, therefore, whoever fails to hearken to the call to abide by the biblical principles of conduct would be rejecting the favor of the Lord, God Almighty. There’s so much to build in Naga society. Should we not be a part in building Nagaland? Let the good thing begin from each one of us beginning with me!
Aah! Election!! Does it ring a bell?! Yes!! ‘Election’ is a multifaceted expression and it’s value is deeply undercut as it is dealt with abruptly. Election in Nagaland (as is understood by me!!) is the time when people, particularly communities, are able to boast of their power and rule in society. It is the utmost point of time when all you can hear around you is people gossiping, some idealizing the future under the leadership of so and so person, while others beam with envy. It is the phase when people, nominees and voters alike, come out of their ‘hibernation mode’ and take part in different societal reforms, public demonstrations etc. Elections, however, can be castigating and bitter as it brings about different revolutionaries with people having their own viewpoints and ideas. Clashes tend to arise among parties as each want to win the race, thus resulting in false accusations, arbitrary controversies, bribery and corruption. The meaning of election has been exhausted and people are being blinded and led to treachery in the very name of election. The use of money and power for malpractices, thus, needs to be stopped and people need to wake up from their fantasy world. It is the time when people have to be honest to themselves without dishonoring their family and morality. Only then can there exists a true refined dorm of election and surreal as it may seem, it can be rest assured that at some point of time, justice and some form of peace will prevail and we will be able to look forward to a new and improved Nagaland, our Homeland!
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Are you a writer, photographer, illustrator, or just have an opinion? We want to hear from you! Submit an article, photo or illustration by March 9, 2013 and see your work in print!
ILLUSTRATION by SÜNGKÜM
A Call for Clean Election Issued by Chairman, Peace Committee, NBCC Election is near and the Church wishes to ask fellow Nagas this very important question --Do you care? Do you care if Nagaland is being crippled by “corruption” and failing to rise and shine as a star? Do you care if so-called “Christians” in Nagaland are becoming a disgrace to the mighty Name of Jesus Christ and his Church because of corruption? Election in Nagaland is seldom fought on the value-based, moral and ideological ground. The game here is all about money. Consequently, there is socio-economic, political and moral decadence and for which people are groaning. The corrupt practices of money politics make the rich richer and the poor poorer. This has adversely affected the social status of Naga society especially the youngsters whose minds are filled with negative attitude, anger, bitterness and frustration. This is a very dangerous social trend that needs urgent attention. Concerned of this grave situation, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council has launched the CLEAN ELECTION campaign on a war footing. How far will people realize and reform is a question in the mind of every one, but the initiative and process of clean election itself is a giant step towards healing of our society. Do you care enough to ‘stand in the gap?’ The Church sincerely appeals every voter to carefully consider the
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consequences of your decision and action. What you do with your vote today will define your tomorrow. The inner battle to be fought by each voter would be, whether: 1. To seek immediate self-gratification by selling your vote and continue to suffer throughout the subsequent years? OR 2. To be selfless and far-sighted by exercising your vote rightly to usher in a positive change where you can rejoice and be proud of? Corruption in election is a Goliath that constantly taunts the caring people in Nagaland! Are you so fed up with this cycle of corruption and wish to bring real change? If so, you need to change first by changing the way you vote. Insanity is doing the same thing and expecting the result to change. No, you cannot do the same thing anymore. You cannot sell your vote to the highest bidder anymore. Whether money is offered to you or not, resist the ‘temptation’ and vote with your conscience and prayer. Then real change will begin. Please bless Nagaland with your honest vote! Will you act wisely and differently this time? A people get a kind of government it deserves. We definitely deserve a good Government. The opportunity is now and the choice is yours. If you want a change, vote for clean election. “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Prov.14:34).
Issue Theme for February:
NAGALAND FOR CHRIST
Deadline for Submission: March 9, 2013 Date of Publication: March 16, 2013
The Morung Express monthly supplement ‘Opinion’ will be published on the third Saturday of every month. In the Opinion, you are the storyteller. Please share your story by responding to the theme of the next issue: “Nagaland for christ” Contributions can be in the form of photography, illustrations, photos of artwork, essays, first-person accounts, poetry, reported articles, and any other form of expression that can be printed.
a PRoDUCTioN oF
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