Dimapur, August 3 (MExN): Hukato Yeptho, Medical (Huve) Kilonser of the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN), has issued a rejoinder denying allegations published in a news report titled "FGN Suspends Three Officials" and accused fellow Kilonser Litsaba Sangtam of orchestrating a campaign to undermine his position and create divisions within the organisation.
In a statement issued on August 3, Yeptho said the rejoinder was intended to "set the record straight" and rebut what he described as false and baseless allegations carried in The Morung Express on August 1.
Claiming that the allegations against him were the "direct handiwork" of Sangtam, Yeptho alleged that the latter was motivated by personal ambition and was attempting to usurp the official responsibilities and portfolio entrusted to him by the FGN Kedahge, Brig. (Retd.) S. Singnya.
Yeptho further alleged that Sangtam, while serving as a Kilonser and representing the NNC/FGN in Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs)-Government of India dialogues, continued to serve as an employee of the Nagaland government and draw a regular salary.
He claimed that Sangtam's dual role, along with the employment of his spouse in the state government, raised questions regarding allegiance, ethics and professional priorities. He also alleged that Sangtam had exploited the credibility and advanced age of the Kedahge to advance personal interests and foster political divisions within the organisation.
The Medical Kilonser further alleged that Sangtam had repeatedly attempted to divide the NNC/FGN along tribal lines by promoting an "Eastern Naga versus Western Naga" narrative, which, according to him, had fostered mistrust, suspicion and factionalism within the organisation.
He claimed that such activities had adversely affected different structures of the government and undermined the unity and collective aspirations of the Naga people.
Stating that he had served the Naga national movement for the past 19 years under the leadership of Brig. (Retd.) S Singnya with loyalty, discipline and dedication, Yeptho said his record reflected his commitment to the cause.
He also asserted that the NNC/FGN could not allow "opportunistic state employees" to compromise the dignity of what he termed genuine national workers or sabotage the movement from within.
Appealing to the Kedahge to safeguard the sanctity, unity and integrity of the government, Yeptho urged him to take firm action against those whom he accused of pursuing personal interests and divisive agendas at the expense of the Naga national movement.
The rejoinder was issued from Oking and dated August 3, 2026.
