Manipur Youth League (MAYOL) continues its year-long voter awareness campaign titled “Vote for National Regeneration Campaign” at various places of the state.
The initiative, is being conducted across the state to strengthen civic awareness, democratic responsibility and voter consciousness.
As part of the programme, two public awareness meetings were held yesterday at Leimaram Kangjeibung Community Hall in Nungthil and Brahmapur Aribam Leikai.
At the first meeting, resource persons included social scientist Dr. Dhanabir Laishram, Ningthoujam Sumila, retired IRS officer Moirangthem Joy, senior citizen Ningthoujam Mangoljao, and MAYOL president Koijam Suresh, along with local leaders.
Speakers said Manipur continues to face challenges in building a stable and value-based political culture, stressing the need for citizens to evaluate both present conditions and long-term implications while exercising their franchise. They also noted that unresolved issues reflect gaps in consensus-building and urged a more responsible and informed political approach.
Koijam Suresh called for active and responsible participation in the democratic process, warning against emotionally driven political decisions and advocating a more informed and unity-oriented political culture. The programme concluded with pledges including “We Will Not Remain Silent” and “We Will Not Sell Our Vote”.
At the second meeting held at Brahmapur Aribam Leikai, speakers included Hemantakumar Ningomba, Editor of Wayel Kati, Adhikarimayum Gichandra and MAYOL Vice-President Laishram James.
Laishram James said voters must evaluate candidates beyond identity-based or emotional considerations, highlighting governance capability, financial accountability, administrative understanding and policy competence as key criteria for leadership selection. He also raised concerns over drug abuse and wider issues linked to illicit cultivation and trafficking networks, calling for informed political participation to address such challenges.
Hemantakumar Ningomba urged voters to assess candidates based on knowledge of law, governance, budgeting and decision-making ability, rather than sentiment or influence, and to carefully scrutinise past performance before extending support.