Two former leaders of Naga Hoho (NH) and its speaker have stated that all references to the hoho should not be taken as negativity, as observed in the sharp reaction given by present incumbents to the opinion expressed by chief minister Neiphiu Rio.
In a statement, former president Keviletuo Kewhuo, former general secretary Mutsikhoyo Yhobu and speaker Kenyuseng Tep reminded that every Naga from any walk of life was a stakeholder in NH, and thus opinions and constructive criticism from Naga leaders were solicited for “our interest”. Rather, they appealed to all Naga leaders – politicians, national workers, bureaucrats, social workers, etc, – to come forward in contributing towards building a common platform and “consolidating ourselves”.
They appealed to all Naga tribe organisations to give serious thought and act to bring about understanding among “ourselves” keeping in mind the ideals of Nagas living together as people and face issues with truth and principles, especially at this crucial point of time when the people were at political crossroads and needed to voice in unison.
Referring to various statements published recently in the media and the meeting convened by the “so called” NH’s executive council on August 16 that was postponed to August 23, they said it was quite unfortunate and regrettable that owing to matters that transpired during the tenure of president Chuba Ozukum most tribe bodies, which were its constituent units, declared their disassociation at one point of time or the other, adding there was no organisation now from the State.
According to them, some of these organisations meant well and expressed views in consonant with the yezhabo (constitution) of the hoho whose basic principle was to bring Naga people together, foster social harmony and protect their interest. But, they alleged, that the present executive council had no regard or respect for the yezhabo and what it stands for.
Mentioning that the tenure of NH 2013-18 had expired on November 26, 2018 and that for any extension the decision of federal assembly was required, the three leaders asserted that the current incumbents had no mandate to continue as it violated the constitutional provisions, not to speak of convening meetings. And all its decisions must be treated null and void, they added.
The three leaders said the only way forward would be for the federal organs to come together as a federal assembly and resolve the matter, in which a full-fledged hoho could be reorganised and its mandate reposed.