More than 61 per cent of voters cast their votes in the elections to the Aizawl Municipal Corporation on Tuesday, with polling taking place in a calm and orderly manner across the city.According to officials, around 61.14 per cent of the 2.39 lakh registered voters exercised their franchise in all 19 wards. Voting started at 7 am and continued till 5 pm without any report of violence or disruption. Authorities said the final turnout figure may change slightly once the official count is completed.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma expressed confidence that his party, the Zoram People’s Movement, would win a clear majority in the civic body. After casting his vote at Chawihhmun polling station, he said the party is aiming to win at least 16 seats. He added that if voted to power, the party would focus on transparent functioning and faster development in the city. He also said that recent criticism of the party would not affect its performance and might instead strengthen public support. Lalduhoma stressed that better coordination between the state government and the municipal body is necessary for effective governance and timely implementation of development work.
On the other hand, the opposition Mizo National Front is seeking a third consecutive term in the municipal body. Party president Zoramthanga said that the party’s past performance would help it retain control of the civic body. He also criticised the ruling party, claiming that people are not satisfied with the current government. A total of 68 candidates, including 28 women, are in the fray. The ZPM, MNF and the Indian National Congress have fielded 19 candidates each, while the Bharatiya Janata Party has put up 11 candidates.
