NEW DELHI: The electoral battle for the 40 Assembly seats in Mizoram on November 7 was fiercely contested, featuring prominent contenders such as the Mizo National Front (MNF), Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), Congress, and BJP all striving for dominance.
Since achieving full statehood in 1987, the political arena in Mizoram has been predominantly occupied by the Congress and the MNF. Following the 1998 Assembly polls, Zoramthanga from the MNF assumed the role of Chief Minister, marking the end of the Congress’s 10-year rule. The MNF held sway for a decade until the Congress emerged victorious in 2008 and 2013.
Making a comeback in 2018, the MNF is now vying for another victory in the 40-member Assembly elections. The ZPM is increasingly recognised in the state as a significant challenger to the MNF. Originally forming as a coalition of regional parties and civil society groups in 2017, it officially gained recognition as a political party in 2019.
In the 2023 Mizoram Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced victories for three more candidates from the ZPM, bringing the total to eight. Renowned footballer and local youth figure Jeje Lalpekhlua secured a victory in the South Tuipui constituency, while Lalfamkima emerged victorious in Kolasib. Lalnghinglova Hmar, representing ZPM, clinched a win in the Aizawl West-II constituency, defeating state cabinet minister Lalruatkima.
Also Read: Mizoram elections 2023 result: Witness Zoramthanga govt’s fate unfold on Dec 4
In Tuichang, W. Chhuanawma overcame the incumbent Deputy Chief Minister Tawnluia. Alongside securing victories in four constituencies, the ZPM is leading in 22 other seats. The MNF follows with 11 seats, the BJP with two, and the Congress with one. Despite an initial count, Zoramthanga is currently trailing in the competition.
The Congress, led by the newly appointed state unit head and former finance minister Lalswata, is seeking a reversal in its fortunes. The party’s campaign primarily revolves around an anti-BJP stance, depicting both the MNF and the ZPM as potential conduits for the BJP’s influence in the Christian-majority state.
Contesting only 23 seats, the BJP may not have the primary objective of securing a decisive victory in the polls. However, the party is optimistic about contributing to government formation, particularly in light of indications suggesting a closely contested election. In its election campaign, the Congress highlighted the Manipur crisis as an issue against the BJP, attributing it to the alleged mismanagement by the BJP in the Northeast. Similarly, the MNF is hopeful that the Manipur crisis will enhance its chances in the polls.