Kohima, April 15 (MExN): The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio has expressed sadness on the demise of Cheno Konyak, father of CL John, Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change and Village Guards, who passed away at the age of 105 on April 14.
The CM in his condolence said he is ‘deeply touched to know that Cheno Konyak was a man of truth, integrity and a big heart, who always kept the welfare of his people as priority throughout his life.’ He was a reformer who fought against the social evils which were prevailing in the Konyak community. As such, he also taught his children to be humble, kind and selfless, Rio stated.
“In his demise, the Konyaks have lost a guardian and a father-figure. Indeed, it will be difficult to fill the vacuum left by him. It is disheartening that he is no longer with us today but it is also a time for us all to rejoice and celebrate his life by cherishing the core values he has left behind. As a token of gratefulness to the departed, let us praise God for the wonderful life he lived,” the CM stated.
While conveying deepest condolences to the bereaved family members, he added, “It is our earnest prayer that Almighty God give you comfort and strength to bear the irreparable loss. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace.”
Eastern Nagaland Legislator’s Union (ENLU) has also mourned the demise of Pj Cheno on April 14 evening at his native village.
‘A patriotic son of the soil, Pj Cheno was born on 1918 blazed a trail for faith by ushering Christianity to Konyak soil in 1960, member of the first Konyak Literature committee, an active member during the formation of NNC in 1957 and a social reformer under the banner of Konyak Students’ Conference,’ ENLU press note stated.
Cheno’s hard work and dedication towards the Konyak community in particular shall remain engraved in the hearts of the Konyak’s as he leaves behind an illustrious legacy, it stated.
The union stated that during early 1960-early 70s, Cheno also served as “Ranapeyu” of Phita Range, Rajapeyu during 1963-71 and also under his initiative, Chen Circle office was established in 1968. Also, during 1960-1968, Cheno was given in-charge for the mission house of Chenwetnyu village and the believers conducted church service in his house till the village church was constructed and he also served as deacon for 35 years, from 1976-2011.
“Cheno, a man of faith, principle and integrity lived a well life, his service to the Konyak’s in particular will always be fondly cherished. On behalf of ENLU and on my own-behalf, conveys our heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family and pray that the departed soul rest in eternal peace,” P Paiwang Konyak, Convener, ENLU added.
