Independent MLAs to support NDPP-BJP government

KOHIMA: Independent MLA, Kevipodi Sophie, who was elected from 14 Southern Angami-I Assembly Constituency, said that the newly-elected Independent MLAs have submitted their letter of support to the government formed by the NDPP-BJP alliance, headed by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

He informed this to Eastern Mirror on the sidelines of a thanksgiving programme at Jakhama local ground in Kohima on Thursday.

Sophie, apprised that along with him, Neisatuo Mero from 16 Pfutsero AC and C Manpon Konyak from 47 Aboi AC, submitted their letter of support to the chief minister on March 7.

It was learnt that Independent MLA, B Bangtick Phom from 49 Tamlu AC, also submitted his letter later.

Sophie expressed hope that they would be part of the ministry, while stating that whether or not portfolios are allocated to them is the prerogative of the chief minister.

“We are hoping that at least we will be accommodated in the ministry,” he said.

“I will go back to my people and we shall try to prioritise their needs while visiting the villages and a colony under my constituency,” he assured.

He apprised that the other two Independent MLAs attended the event during the day to “show their unity” while Phom couldn’t make it owing to some pre-engagements.

Sophie went on to say that they haven’t discussed having a common agenda as every candidate has their own manifesto to fulfill, when asked if the Independent MLAs have common plans ahead.

Meanwhile, speaking during the programme earlier, Sophie sought cooperation from all party men and women while reminding that the “fever of election is over now and that they should all look for a positive future together cutting across the party lines with the spirit of forgive and forget”.