A political storm is brewing in Mizoram as the state’s main opposition, the Mizo National Front (MNF), has officially accused Chief Minister Lalduhoma of breaching the Model Code of Conduct. An election official confirmed on Saturday, October 25, 2025, that a formal complaint has been filed with the Election Commission regarding these serious allegations.
The MNF’s grievances aren’t limited to the Chief Minister alone; they have also targeted Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah, an MLA from the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) and a key adviser to the Chief Minister. This second complaint further complicates the electoral landscape.
According to the complaint, submitted by the MNF’s legal team to state joint chief electoral officer Ethel Rothangpuii on Friday, Chief Minister Lalduhoma allegedly violated election rules by making significant promises during his campaign in Reiek village, Mamit district. These promises included the announcement of a massive ₹700-crore water project for the Dampa constituency and a pledge to supply turmeric processing machines to local farmers, actions which the MNF deems as clear violations of poll ethics.
Adding to the accusations, the MNF claims that Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah orchestrated a free medical camp within the Dampa area after the Model Code of Conduct had already come into effect, an act that could be seen as an attempt to influence voters.
Election officials have confirmed that all these complaints are now under active investigation, ensuring due process will be followed.
The Dampa by-election, scheduled for November 11, features a spirited contest among five candidates vying for the crucial seat.
Among the contenders, the ruling ZPM has put forward Mizo singer and spiritual leader Vanlalsailova. The Mizo National Front (MNF) has nominated its senior vice-president and former health minister, Dr. R. Lalthangliana, while the Congress party is backing its vice-president and former transport minister, John Rotluangliana.
The BJP’s candidate is Lalhmingthanga, a recent addition to the saffron party. Meanwhile, the People’s Conference, led by former Chief Minister Brig. T. Sailo, has chosen its vice-president, K. Zahmingthanga, to represent them.
A substantial electorate of 20,790 voters, comprising 10,185 women, is registered to cast their ballots, holding the power to shape the political future of the five candidates.
The anticipation will culminate on November 14, when the votes will be counted and the winner declared.
This by-election became necessary due to the unfortunate passing of the sitting MNF legislator, Lalrintluanga Sailo, on July 21, creating an open contest for the Dampa seat.