MIP of GPRN/NSCN led by its ato kilonser N Kitovi Zhimomi has clarified the circumstances surrounding the sudden leave of GPRN/NSCN president, ‘gen.’ (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak, was on medical ground. This came in response to media reports that alleged coercion and internal discord within the organization.
According to MIP, Neokpao had reported health issues that necessitated medical attention. In view of this, MIP said the GPRN/NSCN formally sought assistance from civil bodies specifically Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) and Western Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO).
MIP said that the two organizations were asked to take utmost care in facilitating Neokpao’s transportation to the hospital and after which, he was supposed to return to the designated camp.
MIP said contrary to expectations, Neokpao proceeded directly to the private residence of Samson in Thahekhu Village. It said this unexpected deviation raised concerns within the GPRN/NSCN and among the involved civil society organizations.
MIP also refuted allegations in the press and termed it as baseless that Neokpao was held under coercion. It said GPRN/NSCN respected Neokpao as its President and that it had sent him with all proper government protocols along with all his personal security guards and one section of arms in order to escort him to protect his life and ensure his safety from any eventuality. It added that this was also witnessed by WSH and CPO.
MIP reiterated the GPRN/NSCN was sincere with “re-union” besides addressing the issue of political nomenclature of there being no “U” or ‘W’ faction within GPRN/NSCN.
It clarified that the term ‘Unification’ (U) was an unofficial media-coined to distinguish GPRN/NSCN from NSCN (I-M). Initially it was designated as NSCN (K), but the nomenclature was changed to GPRN/NSCN in 2012. MIP said the group still “take and regard gen (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak as our president.”
However, MIP said GPRN/NSCN was yet to ascertain whether Neokpao was staying at his current location by choice or “held captive at the private residence with outrageous exaltation and incentives salving significantly.”
MIP said that the tribal hoho leaders (WSH & CPO) and civil workers of GPRN/NSCN whom he had confided in were awaiting his return after medical treatment.
MIP further discredited press statements and visual media reports over the issue by terming them as “fabrications without a shred of truth.” It opined that had there been any hostility towards the its president, then NSCN/GPRN would have taken all the arms belonging to the GPRN/NSCN (NK) without any hesitation.
Instead, it said GPRN/NSCN chose to allow Neokpao to retain the arms while also wishing him speedy recovery and return home soon.