ULB elections: Kelhousenuo Khruomo first to announce candidature from Kohima

KOHIMA — Kelhousenuo Khruomo from Kohima on Saturday declared her candidature for the upcoming Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections, slated for June 26, at her residence in Paraciezie (High School) Colony, Kohima.

The 29-year-old intends to contest the Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) election from Ward 1, which is one of the largest wards in the state capital and is reserved for women. The ward comprises of seven colonies, namely, Rakabozou, Sepfüzou, Themezie, Peraciezie, Perizie, Zienuobadze and Khikha-Rüleizou.

While terming the 33% reservation for women in the civic bodies as an opportunity to ensure an equitable representation and involvement of women in decision-making, Khruomo said the state is 32 years late, as the provision was introduced through the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992.

She has done a degree in English (Hons.) and a B.Ed., and currently serves as the managing director of Cambridge Montessori Pre School in Kohima.

An active member of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), she expressed her desire to contest on the party ticket.

She said that she would focus on improving water supply, establishment of a community sub-centre for healthcare services, and enhanced access to education, among others, in the ward, if elected. She added that she would consult the ward panchayat for any development work to be carried out in the ward.

She stated that she would consult and seek advice from everyone in her efforts to serve the community and that she is fully prepared to sacrifice for both men and women, young and old, rich and poor.

She pledged to dedicate herself with the utmost sense of justice and fairness, ensuring no discrimination whatsoever. She urged the people of her ward to elect her, giving her the opportunity to serve them.

Speakers, including colony and community leaders, as well as elders, also spoke on the occasion.

Ward 1 has a total of 4,928 electors, comprising 2,478 males and 1,986 females. It is one of the six wards out of 19 in Kohima reserved for women. The other reserved wards are 4, 7, 10, 13, and 16.