In a significant step towards forming a new administration, the Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC) witnessed the swearing-in of its newly elected members. The ceremony sets the stage for a new political chapter in the autonomous region of Mizoram.
Oath-Taking Ceremony Marks Council's First Sitting
The inaugural session of the 25-member LADC was convened on Monday at the council hall in Lawngtlai town. Lallura Chinzah, the protem chairman of the LADC, administered the oath of office to the 24 newly elected members of the district council (MDCs). Earlier that same day, Chinzah himself was sworn into his protem role by Lawngtlai district deputy commissioner, Donny Lalruatsanga.
This first sitting was primarily organized to formally induct the MDCs who were elected in the polls held on December 3. However, a crucial piece of the administrative puzzle remains missing. Officials from the governor’s office in Aizawl confirmed that Governor Gen. VK Singh has yet to appoint the Chief Executive Member (CEM), leaving the top executive position pending.
Post-Poll Alliance Shapes New Leadership
Amid the ongoing festive season, the political landscape within the LADC has crystallized into a new alliance. The election results produced a hung council, with the Mizo National Front (MNF) emerging as the largest party with eight seats, though short of a majority. The Congress secured seven seats, the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) won six, and the BJP along with independents clinched two seats each.
In a swift and surprising political maneuver, the anticipated alliances shifted dramatically post-election. Despite a pre-poll understanding with MNF, Congress attempted to form a coalition with ZPM. However, ZPM opted to join hands with MNF, effectively sidelining Congress. This partnership has led to the formation of a joint legislature party named the 'Lairam Legislature Party (LLP)'.
The post-poll agreement outlines a clear power-sharing structure:
- ZPM's T Zakunga is set to become the Chief Executive Member (CEM).
- ZPM will secure five posts of executive members.
- MNF will obtain the positions of deputy CEM, council chairman, and three executive member posts.
Awaiting Formal Nod and Next Steps
The newly formed LLP has officially staked its claim to constitute the executive council of the LADC. The council's formation now hinges on the governor's formal appointment of T Zakunga as the CEM. Once this appointment is officially made, the protem chairman will convene another council sitting to elect the council chairman.
This subsequent meeting will also set the stage for a crucial floor test, where the newly appointed CEM will need to prove his majority in the 25-member house. The political developments in Lawngtlai are being closely watched, as they will determine the administrative direction of the Lai Autonomous District Council for its current term.
