Photo Courtesy: nenow
Aizawl: The opposition Congress party in Mizoram launched a sharp critique of the Zoram People’s Movement government on Friday. Senior Congress vice president Lalnunmawia Chuaungo stated that the current administration has abandoned its campaign promises of clean, transparent governance and systemic reform.
Chuaungo, a former state Chief Secretary, claimed the ZPM has persisted with the same flawed practices it previously attacked during the Mizo National Front’s tenure. He specifically pointed to the issuance of tenders for pre-selected contractors and an increase in the use of restricted tenders. He further alleged that the current government is attempting to undermine anti-corruption efforts by altering provisions of the Mizoram Lokayukta Act.
The Congress leader also raised concerns about the centralization of authority within the Chief Minister's Office, noting that all major contracts and restricted tenders now require their approval. He argued this approach creates administrative challenges rather than solving them.
Highlighting the state's financial landscape, Chuaungo noted that Mizoram remains heavily reliant on central government funding, which accounts for most of its Rs 17,496.91 crore budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year. He urged the government to manage these resources with greater integrity. Regarding the misuse of public funds, he stated, "Chief Minister and ministers are only custodians of public money. The funds entrusted to them do not belong to them and must be used fairly and according to law. They cannot be used for personal gain or to favour selected individuals."
The Congress party reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption, while officials from the ZPM could not be reached for comment regarding these allegations.
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