The discord within the Nagaland Transparency Public Rights Advocacy and Direct Action Organisation (NTPRADAO) has spilled out into the open with some members claiming to be “original”, through “unanimous voice vote”, formally appointed advisor Mhabemo Lotha as president of NTPRADAO, effective December 17.
He will serve for as long as he retains the full confidence of the organization, NTPRADAO vice-president Y Andrew, secretary general L Chenithung, general secretary Thrijung Sangtam, secretaries Aputo Assumi, Raben Kikon and K Khiamniungan, advisers MT Naga, Meren Ao and Chumdamo Lotha, and women coordinators Kitoli Sema, M Benny and Asen Ao said in a statement
Further, the members said that Phemching Konyak has been expelled as president for “anti-organizational activities” and colluding with expelled and resigned members. His expulsion is effective immediately, based on his appointment notification dated October 18, 2024 which states that: “appointed as president till the time he enjoys the confidence of the organization.”
Clarifying its stance, and reaffirming its commitment to transparency and justice, NTPRADAO members said that they were shocked to learn about a “very disturbing, diabolical and sinister move” by certain “founding members” of NTPRADAO– Keduta Chakhesang, Phemching Konyak, Zuchamo Patton, Temjenmar, Albert Kire, and Ikato Zhimomi wherein they claimed to have distanced themselves and the organisation from allegations against PHED as published in some dailies on December 16, 2024.
NTPRADAO said that the original and fully intact office-bearers comprising of advisors, CCMs and executive members “collectively and unanimously condemns such narrow minded and self vested interest gimmicks by those unruly concern individuals.”
The organization reaffirmed the unanimous decisions made on October 23, 2024, to impeach the following individuals– Ikato Zhimomi general secretary (public policy), Albert Kire general secretary and Temjenmar executive member, for engaging in activities that tarnished the organization’s image under undue external pressures. Consequently, they hold no locus standi in NTPRADAO’s current affairs.
NTPRADAO also expressed shock over media reports dated December 16, 2024, wherein certain individuals– identified as Keduta Chakhesang, Phemching Konyak, Zuchamo Patton, Temjenmar, Albert Kire, and Ikato Zhimomi—claimed to distance themselves and the organization from allegations raised against PHED.
NTPRADAO said that the six members were even liable for legal action and proceedings for tarnishing the reputation of its members and the organization.
NTPRADAO also said that Keduta Chakhesang (former president) and Zuchamo Patton (former general secretary) tendered their resignations earlier and therefore also deemed persona non grata.
Meanwhile, NTPRADAO unequivocally vowed not to succumb to undue external pressure and remain steadfast in its fight against corruption and human rights violations. The organization reiterated its commitment to protecting its independent identity, core values, and credibility, even through legal avenues if necessary.