A section of the rank and file of Naga Army, GPRN/NSCN claimed innocence over the April 21, 2024 ‘coup’ against N. Kitovi Zhimomi and appealed people not to implicate them as power mongers/traitors in any form whatsoever.
According to a statement purported to be a joint declaration by 190 Naga Army personnel, that included- two major generals, four brigadiers, six colonels, 23 lieutenant colonels, 43 major, 41 captains, 21 second lieutenants, 19 sergeant majors, 13 sergeants, 14 corporals and four lance corporals- the event began when commander-in-chief (C-in-C) of Naga Army ordered them back to the general headquarters (GHQ) Khehoyi camp from various commands/units and to report on or before April 20, 2024.
They claimed they were surprised when the then C-in-C ‘gen.’ Samson Aye told them that the Naga Army would take over the government, and that the ato kilonser (Kitovi) would not be allowed to be stationed in the council headquarters (CHQ), as he faced impeachment.
They said this left them speechless and unable to know the motives behind the move by Samson and ‘maj. gen.’ Hotoi. The 190 clarified their position before the Nagas and Naga national workers and to note that in the history of Naga people’s movement for self-determination, the coup was enacted by Samson and Hotoi alone who they said, were responsible and accountable.
They said as they were unaware of the motive behind the coup carried out against ato kilonser N Kitovi Zhimomi on April 21. They also expressed respect for Kitovi, who they described as a “a tall leader among the Naga national leaders” who had sacrificed his prime age and continuing his loyalty and serving to protect the future of the younger generation.
They also reiterated that they would not allow any element to hijack or misguide their loyalty towards Kitovi Zhimomi, their undisputed leader and one who would never fail but lead the people to a better future.
They also declared their loyalty and commitment to stand along with Kitovi to strengthen the NSCN (GPRN) and to remain committed to enhance and solidify the Agreed Position in working toward an early Naga solution.