Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Vikho-o Yhoshu has expressed grief over the sudden demise of late Lutjakai Kuki, one of the five surviving Ex-Interim Body Members (Ex-IBMs), who passed away on October 13, 2019 after a brief illness. He was 88 years and left behind his wife, five children, grand and great grandchildren.
Late Lutjakai, son of late Pu Paokholen Haokip from Kuki tribe, was born in 1931 and educated at Tesangki government-aided ME school. He was the general secretary Kuki Tribal Council in 1961. Late Lutjakai Kuki became a member of Interim Body and represented the Kukis from 1961-1963. He was the founder of Ahthibung town, which was established in 1958. He was one of the founding members of Zeliang-Kuki Public Organisation (ZKPO) that initially demanded Peren sub-division for a full-fledged district in the 1980s. He was also one of the founding members of Peren College in the 1980s.
In a condolence message, NLA speaker said late Lutjakai was elected as chairman of United Democratic Front (UDF) Ahthibung area from 1975-1980.
Ygoshu said late Kuki who became the first elected chairman of Ahthibung town committee in 1982, took active part in the developmental activities at Ahthibung town to uplift the people in different capacities till his last breath.
Yhoshu said his sincere and extensive contribution to the citizens of Nagaland was duly recognized and honoured by the DAN government under the chief ministership of Neiphiu Rio on the 50th year of Nagaland Statehood celebration at Kisama on December 1, 2013. In his death, the speaker said the State has lost a pioneer and a tall leader whose immense contributions would always be cherished.
The speaker, on behalf of the Members of 13th NLA, conveyed condolences to the members of the bereaved family and prayed that God grant solace and comfort at this hour of grief.