DIMAPUR, MAY 26 (MExN): Against the backdrop of the absence of the highest leaders of the NSCN/GPRN (IM) during the ongoing Chiang Mai 14, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation held a meeting in “good spirits” with the highest leaders of the GPRN/NSCN led by Chairman, Gen. (Retd) Khole Konyak and General Secretary, Kitovi Zhimomi and the NNC/FGN led by President, Brig. (Retd) Singnya and Vice President, Mr. Zhopra Vero today the 26th of May 2012 at Chiang Mai, Thailand.
According to a press note issued by the FNR from Chiang Mai, the leaders of the two Political Groups expressed, in no uncertain terms, their regrets over the inability of Chairman Isak Chishi Swu and General Secretary Th. Muivah, of the NSCN/GPRN, to participate during “this much awaited moment”.
“We missed their presence but we are not discouraged”, the leaders of the two political groups stated. According to the FNR, they also ascertained that it will not be, in the words of Kitovi Zhimomi and endorsed by Zhopra Vero, “appropriate in the absence of the NSCN/GPRN to take any decisions affecting the future of the Nagas, which must be deeply rooted in the historical and political rights of the Nagas, as established by the pioneering leaders of the Naga Political movements”. Brig. Singnya reiterated that they “stand by their commitment to reconcile and unite”.
Gen. Khole admitted that “we talk big in meetings but when we go home we wash our hands.” According to the FNR statement, the leaders of the two political groups jointly echoed their opinions that “another meeting of the highest level leaders must be convened at a mutually convenient location for all the leaders to meet at the earliest possible time “.
Both the governments agreed that “our differences need to be sorted out face to face... without it, all our talks will not bear fruit.” Brig. Singnya said that “we need to harvest together.” Kitovi Zhimomi said that “reconciliation has been achieved, but where is our (Naga) political will?”
The Forum for Naga Reconciliation, in return, expressed its deep appreciation for the wisdom of the leaders of the two political groups and their understanding of the ground realities, and especially Gen. Khole and Brig. Singnya, who have travelled so far with sheer determination despite their advanced years and frail health.
“All agreed that if there were no problems or difficulties, there would be no need for reconciliatory initiatives. But since we are faced with numerous problems, we are trying to resolve them through collective understanding, for which we have been undertaking this Journey of Common Hope”.
