Mizoram’s ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) senior vice president and legislator W Chhuanawma has stepped down from his post, citing persistent health concerns. In a letter addressed to the party president on April 22, Chhuanawma, who also serves as deputy chief whip in the current administration, explained that he had considered resigning last year but delayed the decision at the request of party leaders until after the Aizawl Municipal Corporation elections held on April 21.

“I have been unable to fully fulfil my responsibilities as senior vice president due to my health condition. As the AMC elections are over, I am now submitting my request for leave from my post,” he wrote.

Chhuanawma, elected from Tuichang constituency, became senior vice president in ZPM’s first internal election in February 2024. His departure leaves the party with two nominated vice presidents.

The development coincided with Chief Minister Lalduhoma assuming charge as ZPM president after standing president Lalliansawta went on indefinite medical leave. ZPM general secretary Eddy Zosangliana Colney stated that the party’s executive committee will convene on April 28 to deliberate on Chhuanawma’s application and decide whether to fill the vacant post.

Founded in 2017 as an alliance of smaller parties, including Lalduhoma’s Zoram Nationalist Party, the ZPM became a registered political party in 2019. It contested 40 seats in the November 2023 assembly elections and secured 27, dislodging the Mizo National Front government led by Zoramthanga.