Newly elected office bearers of the AKM during the swearing-in ceremony at Chungtia village in Mokokchung on January 15.
TN Mannen flags unity, youth role in Naga issue
Morung Express News
Chungtia | January 15
The 70th General Conference of the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) concluded on January 15 at Chungtia village in Mokokchung district, with TN Mannen, IAS (Retd.), Advisor and MLA for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, Government of Nagaland, gracing the valedictory programme as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Mannen spoke at length on the Naga political settlement, describing it as a collective challenge confronting the Naga people. Tracing the historical journey of the Naga political movement, he recalled a time when the people and political groups stood united with a common vision.
He, however, observed that the Nagas today are a suffering people, gradually losing direction with the presence of as many as 28 nationalist groups.
Emphasising the role of the public, Mannen said it was time for the people to revive their conscience and stand firm for what is right. He said the sacrifices and sufferings of past leaders cannot be forgotten and asserted that political rights must not be compromised in the name of economic development.
“We speak of development, but unless the political issue is resolved, true development will remain elusive,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of youth, Mannen described them as the most valuable resource of society. While acknowledging the large pool of educated youth in Nagaland, he noted that their potential has not been effectively harnessed.
He urged the youth to move away from overdependence on government employment, pointing out that the state is already over-employed and that nearly 70 per cent of Nagaland’s development funds are spent on salaries, which he described as non-productive expenditure. He stressed the need for productive investments, self-employment and greater emphasis on private sector opportunities.
During the conference, new office bearers of the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang were elected and sworn in. The newly elected office bearers are Lanulemba Longchar of Sungratsü (AKTM) as president, Bendangangba of Chungtiayimsen (TKM) as vice president, Aomayang Longkumer of Waromung (JKTM) as general secretary, Arenlong Imsong of Longkong (LKM) as assistant general secretary, Imlikokba Kichu of Khensa (OKM) as education secretary, Akangnungba Aier Longpa (AKTM) as cultural secretary, Watinungsang of Aonokpu (JKM) as sports secretary and Nokshimetem Jamir of Longmisa (OKM) as information secretary.
It was also announced that the 71st General Conference of AKM, along with its centenary celebration, will be hosted at Waromung village in Mokokchung district.
