Mizoram’s Political Landscape: Analyzing ZPM’s Electoral Success and Lessons for the Future

The election season comes to a final halt with the declaration of Mizoram’s Legislative Assembly election result. The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) party won 27 seats out of 40 and is set to form the government. ZPM’s achievement is truly noteworthy, showcasing a remarkable surge as it managed to boost its vote share from 22% in the 2018 election to an impressive 37% in the 2023 election, just within a span of 5 years. This upward trajectory underscores the party’s growing influence and support among the electorate.

Electoral Performance and Trends of ZPM in Mizoram Constituencies

Delving deeper into the statistics, in most of the constituencies where ZPM won the seats it manages to get an average of 46.4 % of the vote shares. Serchhip’s ZPM candidate Pu Lalduhoma manage to get 45.86 % of the vote share while its MNF counterpart received only 29.41%. In some constituencies it even crossed the 50 % mark. Take the case of Aizawl West -III, where the winning ZPM candidate Lalnghinlova Hmar got 10398 votes accounting for a whopping 58.95% of the vote share. While its main opposition Lalruatkima (MNF) manage to secure only 31.63 % of the vote share. Even in constituencies where ZPM lost, it managed to acquire a strong percentage of the vote share. Vanlalsailova, the acclaimed gospel singer and ZPM’s candidate for Dampa-2 A/C, experienced a close electoral contest, narrowly losing to his MNF counterpart by a mere 292 votes. Despite securing a substantial 33.97% of the vote share, Vanlalsailova faced stiff competition. In contrast, Lalrintluanga Sailo of the MNF emerged triumphant with a slightly higher vote share of 35.65%. The closely contested election underscores not only the competitive dynamics within the political landscape of the Dampa-2 A/C constituency but more significantly the increasing sway that ZPM holds over the Mizo electorate in most of the constituencies.

Professor Kham khan suan from the University of Hyderabad attributes several factors on the ascent of ZPM as a ‘viable and attractive’ alternative to MNF. Firstly, ZPM successfully positions itself as the government representing rural communities, particularly those reliant on agricultural income. Its endorsement of a minimum support price for rural cash crops has garnered widespread and positive reception. Secondly, ZPM has strategically fielded a diverse lineup of candidates, including individuals with experience, education, and star power. This includes Pu Lalduhoma, a decorated IPS officer with a history of brokering peace in Mizoram during the 1980s, Jeje Lalpekhlua, a national football player, Baryl Vanneihsangi, a Radio Jockey and municipal councillor, and the renowned gospel singer Vanlalsailova. Armed with young, educated, vibrant and experienced candidates, ZPM manages to grab the attention of voters especially from the younger generations. 

The principle of ‘Tlawmngaihna’

The fabric of Mizo society is woven with the idea of ‘tlawmngaihna’ principle that can be translated to always being prepared to assist others while ensuring not to burden them. It encompasses qualities such as courtesy, courage, humility, and a constant willingness to stand up for the collective well-being of the community. ZPM persistently endeavours to provide support to the Chin-Kuki-Mizo group, also known as the Zo ethnic tribes, hailing from Myanmar, Manipur, and Bangladesh who are facing untold hardships. Prof.J.Doungel from Mizoram University was asked in an interview why Mizoram is taking keen interest in the conflict in Manipur, to which his response was, “If your own brother and sisters are killed, would you not react? That is the reaction of Mizoram”. ZPM effectively positions itself as a party that comprehends, acknowledges, and is committed to upholding the ethnic ties that the Mizos share with the Chin-Kuki people. This, subliminally, sends a direct message to the Mizo electorate, affirming that ZPM respects and will honour the principle of tlawmngaihna. A principle which is admirable by all Mizo. A comparable principle, aligning with the essence of ‘tlawmngaihna,’ is evident among the Kukis as well and is referred to as ‘Khankho’ in the Thadou-Kuki dialect and denoted differently among other Kuki tribes.

What can we learn from Mizoram?

First and foremost, it is imperative that the principles of tlawmngaihna or Khankho govern our lives, molding our values and aspirations. These time-honoured practices seamlessly complement the teachings and theology found in Christianity. 

Second, Elections in Mizoram are usually free from the dramas we associate with. It is largely peaceful and generally is free and fair. This show case the level of political maturity both the politicians and the masses exhibits. Moreover, Elections are not only arena of political competition, but also for candidates and parties to communicate with the public.

Third, the elites, political parties, CSOs and the society at large must cater to the aspirations and voices of the youths. They should not be perceived solely as instruments for election campaigns. Today, youths are well-informed and understand developments not only at the local level but also on a global scale. With proficiency in modern technologies and the intellectual capacity to navigate the information age, youth can conceptualize visions and plans for a brighter future. However, this emphasis on the role of youth does not imply the obsolescence of the older generation. Rather, the suggestion here is that of a healthy mix of the young and the old in the political landscape.

Fourth, our right to vote must be exercised in the utmost discretion. It must not be influence by our tribe, clan, or our village. As voters we must learn how to think for the good of the community and make decisions based on our conscience. We must not view candidates as Santa Claus bringing presents for individual or to particular communities. Important issues such as construction of all weathered roads, proper drainage system, an efficient and eco-friendly waste disposal system, exam centres for SSC, Banking, NET and other core social services which enhances our quality of life must be at the forefront.

Finally, it is paramount that we choose leaders—whether they are politicians, representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs), or village authorities—who genuinely cherish the welfare of the community and work for the benefit of all. Mere education and qualifications, while valuable, do not ensure the success of a leader. What we require are individuals with wisdom, understanding, and a comprehensive vision for the society, transcending the interests of specific communities.

The political landscape is changing, ZPM wave will have an impact on how we conduct our politics here. It will inspire the youths to a new way of politics. Should the community’s political elite fail to embrace these shifting circumstances, there is a looming risk of fading into obscurity, jeopardizing not only the welfare of the common people but also endangering the preservation of our customs, traditions, and, critically, the sanctity of the land bestowed upon us by Providence.

(Kamkholal Sitlhou, Asst.Prof. Dept. of Political Science, Rayburn College)