AIZAWL: Former health minister and incumbent Mizoram Congress vice president Lal Thanzara clinched a decisive victory to assume the presidency of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC).
The election, held on February 21, unfolded into a tense showdown, culminating in Thanzara’s triumph over his lone rival, former minister Zodintluanga Ralte, by a significant margin of 112 votes.
The transition of power within the state’s Congress party follows a decisive defeat in the last legislative assembly election, where the party secured only one constituency, signalling a notable departure from its historical dominance over Mizoram’s political sphere.
Thanzara’s ascension to the helm of MPCC symbolises a shifting of leadership dynamics following the resignation of the five-time Chief Minister, Lal Thanhawla, in December 2021.
Thanhawla, who had held the MPCC chief position since 1973, stepped down, paving the way for former Finance Minister Lalsawta to assume the presidency.
However, Lalsawta’s decision not to contest the party polls, in the wake of the electoral setback, paved the way for Thanzara’s candidacy.
Thanzara’s victory not only highlights his personal political acumen but also signals a fresh chapter in the Congress party’s efforts to rejuvenate itself in Mizoram.
In addition to the presidential election, significant positions within the party’s hierarchy were determined.
Former state Chief Secretary secured the vice president role, while Lalmalsawma Nghaka retained the treasurer post after prevailing over former legislator Lalrindika Ralte.
Furthermore, the party members elected 50 executive members, including 10 women, demonstrating a commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the party structure.
As Mizoram braces for a new era under Thanzara’s leadership, the spotlight now turns towards the Congress party’s vision and strategy to regain its foothold in the state’s political arena ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
