Why Did Former Nagaland Minister Mmhonlumo Kikon Leave BJP?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mmhonlumo Kikon resigns from the BJP after over a decade.
- He expressed gratitude for his time and experiences within the party.
- Kikon plans to explore new public engagement opportunities.
- He has had a significant political impact in Nagaland.
- The BJP continues to be a coalition partner in the state government.
Kohima, Aug 7 (NationPress) The BJP's national spokesperson and ex-minister of Nagaland, Mmhonlumo Kikon, has officially stepped down from both the primary and active membership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), along with relinquishing all party roles this Thursday.
The Nagaland BJP has yet to provide an official comment concerning his resignation.
In his resignation letter directed to the President of the BJP's Nagaland unit, Kikon, who has served as a two-time MLA representing the Bhandari assembly constituency, conveyed his appreciation for the opportunities and responsibilities he experienced throughout his over ten-year journey with the party.
“Since my entry into the BJP more than a decade ago, I have had the privilege of serving the party and contributing to its progress and initiatives in various roles and responsibilities assigned to me. My time with the party has been profoundly enriching, having acted as Prabhari (observer) for Mizoram state and as National Spokesperson,” Kikon stated.
He mentioned that the moment has arrived for him to step back and re-evaluate his path.
“My choice is driven by the desire to seek new opportunities for public engagement and policy work, which I believe will enable me to continue contributing to society in alternative ways,” the Naga leader commented.
He also held the position of State Election Officer for BJP Nagaland and served as the Chief Whip of the BJP Legislature Party within the Nagaland Assembly.
Kikon, a former Minister in Nagaland, boasts a political career that includes two consecutive victories in the state assembly from the Bhandari assembly constituency in 2013 and 2018.
Additionally, he acted as an Advisor to the Nagaland government for Information Technology, Science and Technology, and New and Renewable Energy departments.
In 2020, he was recognized among the ‘Top 50 MLAs’ in India according to a survey conducted by Fame India magazine.
Apart from his political pursuits, Kikon, who holds a Master's degree in English Literature from Delhi University, is a celebrated poet, authoring two books and recognized as an ASPEN Fellow.
He has also been notably active in various social initiatives.
With 12 MLAs, the BJP is a coalition partner with the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) led government in Nagaland.