Imphal: Sitting Member of Parliament (MP) from the Outer Manipur constituency representing the Naga People’s Front (NPF), Dr Lorho S Pfoze, expressed confidence in his candidacy as the potential consensus candidate for the forthcoming 18th Lok Sabha elections.
In an exclusive interview with EastMojo, Dr Pfoze affirmed his unwavering commitment to the NPF, stressing its significance as the only viable political party for the Naga people.
He unequivocally stated that he has no plans to switch allegiance to another political entity, even if he fails to secure the NPF ticket for the Lok Sabha polls this year.
“That will be against my intention. I look at the NPF as the only party where I will trust and depend. This is the only party that is viable for the Naga people. I don’t have a plan B,” said Dr Pfoze.
Highlighting the importance of continuity in addressing pertinent issues in Parliament, Dr. Pfoze underscored the necessity of forging alliances, networking, and understanding the political system to earn the trust and confidence of the people.
“Over the years, I have built up a lot of good relationships with people and people trust me and that is something which has to be earned with hard work. And I am confident that people will see the need of continuity because when you go into the temple of democracy (Parliament), it is not easy as things doesn’t just click as it is,” the Naga MP said.
Acknowledging the complex challenges facing the Naga people, Pfoze urged unity and collective action to navigate these intricacies with a singular purpose.
For a new entrant, he said that it would be a daunting task to tackle these issues from scratch.
“I have already started the work and I want to go to the finish point that is why I have decided to continue on again and God will bless and I am sure the Naga people will also confident that they will put in their trust on me again,” he said.
However, Pfoze asserted that ultimately, it is the prerogative of the Naga people to evaluate his performance and decide their preferred candidate based on vision and conviction.
The parliamentarian disclosed that efforts are underway to select a consensus candidate for the upcoming parliamentary elections, signaling a collective endeavor to ensure effective representation in the Lok Sabha.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Pfoze reiterated his commitment to the welfare of the Naga people, tribal communities, and the state of Manipur, pledging to continue his dedicated efforts for their betterment.
“I promised that I will do my best and lay in my everything for the good of the Naga people, for the tribals and also for the state of Manipur at the moment,” he added.
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It may be mentioned that at least eight intending candidates from different Naga communities, including the sitting MP Pfoze, had attended the United Naga Council (UNC) consultive meeting in Senapati district recently.
“Given the present time and situation, it is of paramount importance that a Naga represents our people in the Lok Sabha and so the consultative is being convened for securing the same,” a notification from the UNC read.
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