Aizawl, December 4: The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) emerged victorious in the Mizoram assembly elections, held on November 7, securing a clear majority to form the next government. Counting of votes, delayed by a day, concluded today with ZPM winning 27 seats, while the incumbent Mizo National Front (MNF) managed only 10.
ZPM’s working president, K. Sapdanga, announced that the party will stake claim to form the government after consulting newly elected MLAs and senior leaders. Lalduhoma, ZPM’s leader and frontrunner for the Chief Minister post, is already in Aizawl for the meeting.
Lalduhoma’s Priorities:
74-year-old Lalduhoma, set to become the next Chief Minister, has outlined his government’s top priorities:
- Supporting Farmers: Setting a minimum purchase price for ginger, turmeric, chili, and broomsticks.
- Fiscal Reforms: Establishing an expert committee to revamp the state’s financial health.
- Zero Tolerance for Corruption: Implementing a strict anti-corruption policy and granting the CBI full authority to investigate.
ZPM Sweeps, MNF Loses Ground:
While ZPM emerged as the clear winner, the MNF, led by outgoing Chief Minister Zoramthanga, suffered a significant setback. The Congress, which contested all 40 seats,won one, highlighting its declining influence in the state. The BJP, which contested 23 seats, could only manage to win 2, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) drew a blank in its debut Mizoram election.
Lalduhoma has indicated that the ZPM will likely stake claim to form the government on Wednesday, with the swearing-in ceremony expected on Thursday or Friday.
