Dimapur, Dec 30: Referring to post election studies conducted by YouthNet Nagaland in which an approximate amount of Rs 937,82,67,500 was spent during February 23, 2013, general elections which seemingly prompted the elected representatives to indulged in rampant corruption with least concern for development, Vitoka Aye, former joint secretary of Zunheboto Town Youth Organisation (ZTYO) and former president of Kohima Law College Students’ Union (KLCSU) stressed on the importance of clean elections.
Speaking as the chief guest at the 36th session of Ikiye Village Students’ Union (IVSU) on December 28, Aye said a whooping amount of Rs 937,82,67,500 was spent in the February 23, 2013, elections to buy votes. With the substantial amount spent during elections, he said elected representatives have to recover the same from the public fund by indulging in corruption thereby giving way to development.
Emphasising on change as the need of the hour, he said it should be a collective responsibility in upholding the true Christian principles starting from the church institution/association, village, community, district and the Nagas in general. He also said every citizen should exercise their vote in the true spirit of democracy because people’s vote determines our future and upcoming generation.
He urged the students to be sincere and discipline in their academic career so that they do not face hardship in competitive examinations. Also stating that patience, dedication and determination would lead to success in life, he urged them to live an exemplary life.
Highlighting on the impact of RTI Act 2005, Aye said this act is one of the most powerful tools where everyone have right to get an information in every government establishment to access information as per the provision of the act. He said RTI promotes transparency, empower its citizens, reduce corruption, increase efficiency of government establishments.
Abel H Achumi, secretary BJP Nagaland State and guest of honour, citing on a Bible verse from Jeremiah 29:11, urged the students to not only depend on government sector but to live a life with hope and discipline.
Ms Holivi Achumi, president of Ikiye Village Students’ Union, delivered the presidential address, while Khekato Zhimo, Advisor IVSU, exhorted the congregation. Ms Illito Yeptho, Associate Youth pastor of Ikiye Baptist Church (IBC) invoked God’s blessing. Indigenous folk song was presented by cultural troupe, while special number was performed by IVSU students.
Hutoka Zhimo chaired the programme and Mughalu Chophy recorded the proceedings. It concluded with a benediction said by Shetoni Zhimomi, Deaconess IBC.
