Aizawl — The Mizo National Front (MNF) and its ally, the Hmar People’s Convention (HPC Reformed), have achieved a significant victory in the Sinlung Hills Council (SHC) election, securing a majority by winning seven of the council’s 12 seats.
The election, held on November 5, saw the MNF-HPC(R) alliance outperform rivals, with the results announced by the State Election Commission late on November 5.
The ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) and the Hmar People’s Convention (HPC) suffered setbacks, with ZPM securing only three of the eight seats it contested, while the HPC failed to win any of the four seats it contested. The Congress managed to win one of the 12 seats, while the BJP, contesting a single seat, was unable to secure a victory. Officials noted that results for one remaining seat are still pending as of Wednesday.
Among notable results, incumbent chief executive member (CEM) Lalvenhima Hmar from ZPM successfully defended his Suangpuilawn seat. However, ZPM’s SHC chairman, HC Lalmalsawm, was defeated by MNF candidate Benjamin Lalrawnliana in the Zohmun constituency.
The election featured a diverse lineup of 49 candidates, including one woman. This recent election holds particular significance, as the SHC was established on July 9, 2018, as part of a peace accord between the Mizoram government and the former underground group, Hmar People’s Convention (Democratic), signed on April 2 of that year. The council consists of 12 elected members and two nominated seats, aiming to bring governance and representation to the Sinlung Hills area.
The MNF-HPC(R)’s success reflects a consolidation of support for the alliance in the region, marking a shift in local political dynamics and reinforcing MNF’s influence.