UPPL Unveils Manifesto Ahead of April Assembly Elections
UPPL's Election Manifesto Launch
UPPL leaders, including Pramod Boro (4th from left) & UG Brahma (3rd from left), unveil the manifesto, on Thursday. (AT Photo)
Kokrajhar: The United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) has officially launched its manifesto for the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for April 9, detailing its governance achievements within the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) and presenting new commitments for the region.
The manifesto, spanning 14 pages, was revealed at the party's headquarters in Kokrajhar and emphasizes UPPL's accomplishments during its time in the BTC, urging voters to support the party in the forthcoming elections.
Prominent party figures, including UPPL leader Pramod Boro, attended the event.
Senior leader UG Brahma characterized the manifesto as 'inclusive', noting a rising political consciousness among voters, particularly regarding the necessity to bolster the Opposition.
"A segment of voters who previously supported the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) in BTC elections are now gravitating towards UPPL," he stated during a press conference.
The party also indicated a strategic approach to potential post-election alliances. UPPL president and former BTC Chief Executive Member Boro expressed confidence that the party would secure between 10 to 12 of the 15 Assembly seats in the BTC area, positioning UPPL as a possible key player in government formation.
Boro clarified that, unlike previous instances, the party would not provide unconditional support to any government.
"In the past, we offered unconditional backing for the BTR peace accord's implementation. This time, our support will hinge on commitments to Bodoland's development, safeguarding rights, and uplifting marginalized communities," he explained.
He claimed that numerous smaller communities in the region are still lacking access to development benefits and rights, emphasizing that addressing these issues would be central to UPPL's political agenda.
On Wednesday, ramping up the campaign, Boro spoke at rallies in Maligaon, Jaipuri, and Kokrajhar town, where he launched pointed criticisms against the BPF and its candidate Sewli Mohilary.
He denounced her candidacy, asserting that her primary identity is tied to BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary and labeled her a businessperson unfit for public service.
"Business is profit-driven, while politics is about selflessly serving society," Boro remarked, endorsing UPPL candidate Lawrence Islary, whom he credited with over twenty years of grassroots activism and expressed confidence in his success.
Boro also claimed that the party would achieve a significant victory in the Tamulpur constituency.
Islary echoed the criticisms, targeting Sewli during his campaign, asserting that elections cannot be won through 'money and muscle power'.
He questioned her dedication to public service and claimed that voters were unhappy with her approach.
Islary further alleged that comments attributed to Mohilary, including limited public engagement if elected, had raised concerns among constituents regarding her intentions.
He maintained that the electorate is in search of credible leadership and insisted that UPPL's support base in the region remains robust.