Former minister, Dr. K. Kath, passed away at a private hospital in Dimapur on Monday. He was 70. He is survived by his wife, there sons, one daughter and 12 grand-children.
According to family sources, a send-off service would be held at private residence, Bayavu Hill, Kohima at 8 a.m. on November 18. The funeral service would be held at 11 a.m. at Tseophenyu New Village.
Born on December 5, 1955, Dr. K. Kath entered politics in 1987 was elected to the 7th Nagaland Legislative Assembly as Naga People’s Council (NPC) candidate from 12 Tseminyu A/C in 1989. He was inducted as minister of state for sports and youth welfare under K.L. Chishi’s ministry.
In 1990, he was inducted as the first cabinet minister from the Rengma Tribe in charge of transport & communication and parliamentary affairs under the chief ministership of late Vamuzo Phesao.
He contested again in 1993 as an NPC candidate; served as press secretary, Naga People’s Council and was subsequently appointed as general secretary NPF from 2002 till 2008, attached to the chief minister and remained as a life member of the party till his last breath.
Condolences
Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Sharingain Longkumer has expressed deep grief over the passing of former minister Dr. K. Kath, describing him a distinguished public servant.
In condolence message, NLA speaker said late Dr. Kath devoted his life to the service of the State as an active student leader, a committed medical professional and later as a respected political figure.
Sharingain Longkumer said that his humility, integrity and steadfast commitment to the welfare of the people would be remembered as the enduring hallmarks of a life of purpose and service.
NLA, speaker, on behalf of the members of the 14th NLA, conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the Almighty grant them all the strength, solace and comfort in this hour of grief.
Rengma Hoho: Rengma Hoho has expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Dr. Khasü Kath, describing him as a distinguished leader who served both the community and the state with commitment and integrity.
In a condolence message issued through its president Er. Tesinlo Semy, the hoho said Dr. Khasü, a respected medical professional and prominent political figure, exemplified true statesmanship throughout his public life. It noted that as the first cabinet minister from the Rengma tribe, Tseminyu sub-division was upgraded to an ADC headquarters- an achievement the hoho termed a historic milestone for the Rengma people.
Stating that his contributions had left a lasting impact on the socio-economic progress of the community, the hoho said his demise had created a “deep void” in the collective leadership of the Rengmas. His selfless service, noble character and lifelong dedication to public welfare would be remembered with gratitude, it added.
RH conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for eternal rest of the departed soul.
State deputy chief minister Y Patton also mourned the demise of Dr. K. Kath and said that his long years of service and dedication left a clear and lasting impact on the people of Nagaland.
Patton noted that many had looked to Dr. Kath for guidance, and his commitment to public welfare earned him respect across communities.
The deputy chief minister conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and all those who were close to Dr. Kath. Patton also prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the family during this difficult time.
Minister for power & parliamentary affairs, KG Kenye also expressed deep pain over the demise of Dr. K. Kath and said that on his departure, the state had lost a staunch regionalist and a prominent ex-parliamentarian.
Kenye conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the Almighty God grant timely solace.
Naga People’s Front (NPF) through its press bureau expressed sorrow over the passing of late Dr. Khasü Kath, former general secretary (administration) of the party.
NPF said late Dr. Kath, a senior politician and staunch regionalist, contributed his best to the growth of the NPF party during his active years in politics. It said that the party would always cherish his contributions and efforts for the welfare of the party.
The party conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the Almighty God grant them strength and comfort in this time of sorrow.