By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Mizoram is set to elect its sole representative to the Rajya Sabha on June 18, with the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) and the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) competing for the seat in a closely watched contest.
Polling will be conducted at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly building in Aizawl between 9 am and 4 pm, while vote counting is scheduled to begin at 5 pm. Assembly officials have confirmed that all necessary arrangements, including security and logistical preparations, have been completed for the election.
The ZPM has nominated party spokesperson K. Laltluangkima as its candidate, while the MNF has fielded advocate and author Zothansangi Hmar. The election will determine who represents the state in the Upper House of Parliament for the upcoming term.
The political arithmetic in the 40-member Assembly strongly favours the ruling ZPM, which currently holds 27 seats. The MNF has 10 legislators, while the BJP and Congress have two and one members respectively.
Adding significance to the contest, both the BJP and Congress have opted to stay away from the voting process. Congress legislator C. Ngunlianchunga has confirmed that he will abstain in line with instructions from the party leadership. The BJP has also announced that its two MLAs will not participate in the election.
With the two national parties choosing not to cast their votes, the race has effectively narrowed to a direct battle between the ZPM and the MNF. However, the ruling party’s substantial majority in the Assembly places its nominee in a favourable position heading into the poll.
The result of the election is expected to be declared later in the day following the completion of counting, bringing an end to the contest for Mizoram’s lone Rajya Sabha seat.