Election is crucial first step towards achieving greater goals, says Nagaland woman MLA Hekani Jakhalu

First-time legislator Hekani Jakhalu, who has been appointed advisor of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland, on Saturday said winning the election marked the beginning of a new chapter for Dimapur-III AC, which she is representing, and encouraged the people to work together towards making it a model constituency.

Addressing the gathering during the thanksgiving programme at her residence in Toluvi village, Dimapur, after becoming the first women, along with Salhoutuonuo Kruse, to be elected to Nagaland assembly, Jakhalu said contesting the election was not merely a frivolous pursuit of power, but rather a crucial first step towards achieving greater goals.

Jakhalu acknowledged that the task ahead won’t be easy, but assured the gathering that along with her team, she would work hard for the next five years to achieve their goals.

Jakhalu urged everyone to prepare themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually to do good work for the people.

Young people often look for shortcuts and lack consistency, she said while urging the youth to continue supporting her in order to fulfill her election promises.

During the event, Jakhalu also said that she is contented with her portfolio, adding that ‘the leaders know what is best for her’.

Read: History created in Nagaland: 2 women elected to state assembly

In an interaction with the media after the programme, Jakhalu expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for entrusting her with this responsibility (as advisor). She said that people seemed to perceive the Industries and Commerce department as a ‘dead portfolio’ in the past but it comprise of four ministries — Textiles, Food Processing, MSME, and Industries and Commerce.

The 48-year-old legislator added that she has been working in this field for some time and was grateful to the CM for having faith in her ability to do justice to the department.

When asked about not getting a cabinet seat, Jakhalu expressed confidence in the leadership of the chief minister, saying that he ‘knows the strengths and abilities of each person and assigns them to the right position’. She added that Kruse is worthy (of cabinet berth) and well deserved.

On youth, reservation in ULB

When asked if she would be able to provide employment opportunities to the youths with the allotted portfolio, she expressed optimism, saying that there were many opportunities available.

While acknowledging the talent and hardworking nature of the youth in Nagaland, she pointed out that they tend to be impatient and lack consistency. Instead of blaming the leaders and others, the youth should seize the opportunities available and work hard to make the most of it when they receive help from others, she added.

Jakhalu went on to say that some people are lazy and only look for easy money and quick solutions; ‘they will never achieve their dreams’.

On the opposition put up by Kohima Municipal Ward Panchayat, All Ward Union Mokokchung Town, and the Dimapur Urban Council Chairman Federation on government’s notification about 33% reservation of seats for women in the ULB elections, Jakhalu said she along with Kruse, would hold discussions with the leaders of these associations on the matter.

She said that they would try to make them understand the importance of reservation for women in such elections, adding that times have changed. Dimapur, March 11 (EMN)

What Hekani Jakhalu has to say after winning election from 3 Dimapur-III AC