Former MLA Kakheho Sukhalu passes away

Late Kakheho Sukhalu

Dimapur, February 21 (MExN): Vice President of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and former MLA, Kakheho Sukhalu passed away after a prolonged illness in Dimapur on February 21. He was 63.

Late Sukhalu was elected Member of Nagaland Legislative Assembly from 35 Zunheboto Assembly Constituency in 1998 as an independent candidate. After finishing his high school from Zunheboto Government High School, he obtained his B. Com degree from Shillong College, Meghalaya. He served in various capacities in several civil society organizations before joining active politics. 

One of the founding members of the Nationalist Democrat Progressive Party, Sukhalu held the post of party Vice President until the time of his passing. Late Kakheho Sukhalu is survived by his wife, three sons and two daughters.

Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio said that late Sukhalu was a courageous leader and always stood up for what he thought right and constantly strived to ensure justice to all sections of the people. 

"He was a close friend and a strong supporter of mine. His demise is a great loss not only to our party and the people of Nagaland but it is also a personal loss to me. I will miss his presence and his mature advice at this crucial juncture," he added and extended condolences to the bereaved family. 

NLA Speaker, Sharingain Longkumer said he worked sincerely for the welfare and upliftment of his constituency and for the people of Nagaland.

Leader of Opposition TR Zeliang eulogized Sukhalu as a man who “proved his worth as a student leader, a businessman, a sportsman and later as a politician.” 

Vice -President of NSCN/GPRN (Reformation), Akato Chophi remembered the former MLA as a "force to be reckoned with, a broad minded frontrunner in both social and political fields."