In the fervor of election season, retired IRS officer K Timothy Zimik has emerged as a beacon of hope for Manipur’s Outer Parliamentary Constituency ahead of the forthcoming 18th Lok Sabha Elections. Backed by the Naga People’s Front (NPF) and collective Naga civil society organisations, Zimik’s candidacy gains further momentum with the endorsement from two major national political parties, the BJP and NPP.
Paving a path of progress and change for the people of Outer Manipur, Zimik has gained the support of a history-defining alliance. With the unprecedented alliance endorsing their consensus candidate Timothy Zimik, the stage is being set for a new narrative in Manipur’s politics.
In a compelling address at his recent poll campaign rally held in Ukhrul town, Zimik articulated his vision for a brighter future, underlining the transformative potential of this tripartite alliance.
Expressing confidence in the alliance’s capacity to drive progress and development, Zimik sees this partnership as a gateway to stronger ties with the Central government. He said that his official endorsement as the consensus candidate reflects a genuine commitment to achieving positive results, rooted in mutual trust.
He exuded that NPF’s partnership with the NDA (BJP) and NPP will position his party for the progress and development of the state. He confidently stated “As the consensus candidate of this alliance, I firmly believe it (the alliance) offers a much brighter future than if I was merely a candidate of the NPF.”
Standing on the shoulders of unity, Zimik rallied the support of 20 tribes out of 21 in the state. He, then, emphasized the critical need for a unified voice, particularly among the Tangkhul tribe. His appeal resonated with a call for representation and empowerment, urging the community to seize the opportunity for positive change.
In his appeal to the people, Zimik asked for their support and votes, assuring them that he will not let them down. He pledged to work tirelessly for their cause and to address their concerns. He said that he has dedicated himself to serve the people in the name of God.
He promised to work tirelessly for the state’s progress with the support and partnership of the NDA and NPP, stating “I can see abundant opportunities for development in this scenario.”
In a bold declaration, Zimik pledged unwavering commitment to the people, promising to champion their rights and address their concerns. His resolve to tackle longstanding issues, including the Naga political conflict, reflects a dedication to fostering peace and prosperity.
Zimik then brought attention to the long-standing Naga political issue and its enduring effect on the Nagas. He pointed out the struggles the Nagas have faced for the past 75 years while fighting for their political issue. “How much longer should we endure?” he asked.
On the current unrest in the state, Zimik made it clear that resolving the issue and creating a peaceful environment for all communities is of prime importance for him and the alliance, while stressing on the need for development for the people as a priority.
Speaking during the campaign, Water Resources and Relief & Disaster Minister Awangbou Newmai reflected on the hardships faced by the people under the previous Congress regime. He called on the community to support the consensus candidate of the alliance, K Timothy Zimik, in order to ensure their safety and well-being.
Minister Newmai also noted that the upcoming MP elections will serve as a test of the unity of the Tangkhul people.
Phungyar MLA Leishiyo Keishing emphasized the strong foundation of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) and how it has come to bank on the credibility of the tripartite alliance. He believed that this move will ensure meaningful representation in Parliament for the various communities of the state.
Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah’s solidarity message for the consensus candidate Timothy Zimik was also read out, although he could not make it to the campaign owing to his health condition.
MK Preshow Shimray, the former deputy speaker and spokesperson of BJP Manipur Pradesh, called upon the community to support the alliance candidate for the overall growth of the state. He believed that this alliance would bring about a positive change in the development of the state.
Chairman of Loktak Development Authority (LDA) Ashnikumar Singh also spoke about the significance of the upcoming elections for the alliance partners. He pointed out that there would be no competition between the alliance partners, unlike other elections, as they are united in their support for the alliance candidate.
Acknowledging the strong bond between the Nagas and Meiteis, Singh related how this bond was tested during the reign of the Congress with their divisive strategies. He further stated that the alliance is committed to fostering peace and harmony between the different communities in the state.
The event also saw the presence of BJP Manipur vice president Hopingson Awung Shimray, Ex-MLA Samuel Risom, TNL president in-charge R Jollyson, NPP Manipur general secretary Rock Lungleng, Ukhrul District BJP president Thothing Kashung and other notable figures along with representatives from NPF, BJP, and NPP.
