Aizawl: In a spirited address to party workers on Monday, Zoramthanga, President of the Mizo National Front (MNF) and former Chief Minister of Mizoram, delivered a message of resilience. He urged party members not to be disheartened by setbacks, including recent electoral losses. “While we may experience a loss, we must not treat it as if heaven has fallen. It is merely an opening for the next opportunity,” he emphasized, calling for renewed determination and focus within the party ranks.
Zoramthanga, who has led the MNF through numerous electoral battles, acknowledged the challenges faced by the party but underscored that setbacks were a natural part of political life. He encouraged MNF members to maintain high spirits, focusing on future prospects rather than dwelling on temporary defeats.
Turning his attention to the current administration, Zoramthanga expressed serious concerns regarding the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government. He criticized the ZPM’s decision to reschedule the Village Council (VC) elections, originally planned for August, to February under what he described as a “martial law” scenario. “There is no valid reason for such a drastic change. The date was altered without any substantive explanation, raising serious questions about the ZPM government’s intentions,” he remarked, describing the move as inconsistent and hasty.
The MNF leader also strongly opposed the ZPM government’s handling of Lengpui Airport. “The ZPM government is attempting to place the airport under the control of the Air Force, a move unprecedented in our history. This would effectively hand over control of our airport to an external force, which is tantamount to allowing the Air Force to ‘squeeze our necks.’ We will not stand for this and will fight against it until the end,” Zoramthanga declared, advocating for a more locally driven approach to managing this vital infrastructure.
Another critical issue raised by Zoramthanga was the alleged doubling of rice prices under the current administration. “The price of rice has skyrocketed, burdening the common people. This is unacceptable, and we will review the situation,” he asserted. In addition to rice prices, he criticized the increase in fuel costs, noting that petrol and diesel prices had risen by seven rupees, further straining the finances of the public.
Despite his criticisms, Zoramthanga struck an optimistic note about the MNF’s future, predicting that the year 2028 would mark a significant turning point for the party. “In 2028, the MNF will rise to success. We will review and address the rising costs of essential goods, such as rice, and ensure that petrol and diesel prices are brought under control,” he vowed.
The former Chief Minister’s address reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the concerns of the people and positioning the MNF for a resurgence in Mizoram’s political landscape.
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