Candidates who want to canvass in the Chin National Front (CNF)-controlled zones need to ask for permission from the CNF, said Salai Htet Ni, Spokesperson of the CNF as part of their precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Currently, some parties have contacted the CNF for canvassing.

Salai Htet Ni added. “The main point is the prevention and control of COVID-19 in the CNF-based area. The CNF must do it and it is also at the request of the local people. I want candidates to abide by the directives issued by the Union Election Commission (UEC) for the preventive measures against the COVID-19”.

On September 7, the CNF issued a statement about the election, saying that the CNF welcomes the election slated for November 8. Prior permission is required for the parties and candidates to inform the CNF to do canvassing, as it is a pandemic period.

“Some people and organizations have maligned CNF. But Salai Htet Ni affirmed “The CNF doesn’t want to see insulting responses among the political parties and personals in Chin State arising from CNF’s statement. We would like to see mutual understanding and respect among the Chin people.”

The CNF has urged the authorities to freely and fairly hold the 2020 General Election in accordance with democratic practice.

According to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) signed between the CNF and the government in 2012, the CNF is based in Htantalan, Teedim and Paletwa Townships in Chin State.

However, the CNF has not been able to establish any base in Paletwa Township until now.