Northeast Desk, 4th December: In a conclusive Mizoram Election result declaration, V. Malsawmtluanga of Zoram People’s Movement emerges victorious with 7369 votes, defeating Dr. Vanlaltanpuia of MNF who polled 5394.
Lalduhoma, leading ZPM, dislodges MNF in Mizoram, with Chief Minister Zoramthanga conceding defeat. Zoramthanga lost to ZPM’s Lalthansanga by 2101 votes in Aizawl East – 1 seat.
The political landscape in Mizoram, traditionally controlled by Congress and MNF, witnesses a significant shift. After the 1998 elections, MNF’s Zoramthanga took over as Chief Minister, ending Congress’s decade-long reign. MNF’s return to power in 2018 set the stage for the recent electoral battle.
The Congress’s campaign focused on an anti-BJP stance, portraying MNF and ZPM as potential ‘gateways’ for the BJP in the Christian-majority state. Despite contesting only 23 seats, the BJP aimed to influence government formation.
The Manipur crisis played a pivotal role in Congress’s campaign, blaming BJP for alleged mismanagement in the Northeast. MNF also hoped the crisis would enhance its electoral chances.
Former IPS officer Lalduhoma, aged 73, secures a massive victory in the Sercchip constituency, positioning himself to become Mizoram’s new Chief Minister. This marks a significant change after three decades, as Lalduhoma’s journey from the Indian Police Service to politics culminates in a historic win.