DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 17 (MExN): Condolences poured in from political leaders, organisations, student bodies and community institutions following the demise of Shikaho Zhimomi, President of the Western Sümi Hoho (WSH), who passed away in New Delhi on December 16 while undergoing treatment. He was 69 and is survived by his wife and five children.
Minister for PWD (Roads & Bridges), G Kaito Aye, described Zhimomi’s death as an irreparable loss to the Sumi community and the people of Nagaland. The minister said the late leader was devoted and steadfast, whose commitment to unity, welfare and social harmony would be remembered with deep respect. He added that Zhimomi’s counsel, sense of responsibility and dedication to public service were deeply admirable.
Advisor for Elections and Tribal Affairs, H Tovihoto Ayemi, mourned the loss of a leader devoted to selfless service, stating that Zhimomi’s leadership and unwavering commitment to the Sumi community and the Nagas at large would be remembered with gratitude and reverence.
The Collective Leadership of the GPRN/NSCN (Unification) also conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the Sumi community on the irreparable loss of the WSH President. In its message, the collective leadership said Zhimomi’s untimely demise had created a void in initiatives aimed at an amicable political solution, noting that his presence and interventions in resolving conflicts among neighbouring communities would be remembered for years.
It further acknowledged the late leader’s consistent expression of concern over the inordinate delay in the political settlement, stating that he had cautioned against the changing political dimensions of the peace process due to prolonged delays.
The Naga Council Dimapur (NCD), in a condolence message, expressed deep sorrow over the untimely loss of a leader who exemplified selfless dedication to the Sumi community and the larger Naga society. The NCD said Zhimomi’s presidency strengthened bonds among different Naga tribes, adding that he was a man of integrity and a strong advocate of Naga unity.
The Nagaland Gaonburas Federation (NGBF) described him as a soft-spoken leader whose humility, wisdom and commitment marked his leadership, and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
Student organisations, including the All Sümi Students’ Union (SKK) and the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU), expressed profound grief over his passing. While SKK highlighted his exemplary leadership and selfless service as an inspiration for future generations, DNSU described him as a respected leader and social worker whose contributions would always be remembered.
The Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) remembered Zhimomi as a dedicated leader who worked tirelessly for public upliftment and played a key role in addressing challenges faced by the business community.
The All India Congress Committee Minority Department recalled its close association with the late leader and praised his dignity, wisdom and contributions to society.
The Dimasa Naisho Hosom, Chümoukedima district, described Zhimomi as a humble and widely respected leader whose absence would be deeply felt across communities, while acknowledging his contributions as a social worker.
The Kachari Tribal Council Nagaland (KTCN) praised his inclusive leadership and efforts to promote inter-tribal harmony, recalling his warm brotherhood towards the Kachari community.
The Nagaland Gorkha Association (NGA) remembered Zhimomi as a dear friend and sympathiser of the Gorkha community who treated them with love and care, and conveyed its deepest condolences.
The Western Chakhesang Hoho (WCH) described him as a leader of integrity, unwavering principles and selfless dedication, highlighting the strong relationship of cooperation and mutual respect shared between the Western Chakhesang Hoho and Western Sümi Hoho under his leadership.
The Konyak Union termed his demise a great loss not only to the Sumi community but to the entire Naga society, recalling him as a visionary leader who upheld unity, peace and social harmony.
The Nagaland Zeliang People Organization (NZPO), District Peren, described his death as a huge loss for the community and the Nagas at large. NZPO said Zhimomi’s sacrifice and commitment to societal welfare would always be cherished.
The Tangkhul Union Dimapur (TUD) described Zhimomi as a towering figure who worked tirelessly for the welfare of the Sumi community and strengthening harmony within the larger Naga society.
The Dimapur District Citizens’ Forum (DDCF) also expressed its deepest condolences, praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved family during the time of grief.
WSH, DCCI appeal for half-day business closure
As a mark of respect, the Western Sümi Hoho has appealed to all business establishments within its jurisdiction covering Dimapur, Niuland and Chümoukedima districts to observe a voluntary half-day closure on December 18. The WSH said the gesture would reflect collective grief, solidarity and respect for a leader devoted to unity, integrity and public welfare.
In a separate press note, the DCCI requested business establishments in Dimapur to voluntarily close from 6 am to 12 noon on the same day.
The funeral service of Late Shikaho Zhimomi will be held on December 18 at 10 am at Kiyeto Village. The Western Sümi Hoho and its affiliated bodies have urged organisations, institutions and well-wishers to participate and pay their last respects.
